Due to the high number of COVID-19 transmissions and risks association with an outbreak at the Norfolk General Hospital right now – they are introducing enhanced visitor restrictions effective immediately.
In short, no social visitors will be allowed at the hospital for the foreseeable future.
Patients will be allowed two designated Essential Care Providers, but only one will be allowed at
a time.
Patients visiting the Emergency Department and outpatient clinics who require assistance may have one support person only.
All ECP’s must:
• Monitor for COVID-19 symptoms before each visit. Symptomatic or COVID
exposed/positive ECPs (regardless of vaccination status) are not permitted to
visit.
• Be screened before entering.
• Wear a hospital issued mask, sanitize their hands and only go to their loved
one’s room.
• All ECPs visiting our inpatient units are required to have a COVID-19 Rapid test
performed, with a negative result at the hospital, before being permitted through
to visit.
• All ECPs visiting our inpatient units must sign a form that indicates that they will
be compliant with the hospital’s guidelines
• ONE designated Essential Care Provider (ECP) will be permitted at a time (some
exceptions may apply – see below)
• TWO Essential Care Providers can be designated and are not interchangeable.
• Physical distancing must be maintained.
• No eating or drinking is permitted while visiting.
• Frequent hand cleaning is required.
• Be 18 and older
Some exceptions are in place for certain patients, including patients who are eligible for
a designated (ECP):
• End of Life – Palliative Care
• Patients with intellectual / communication impairments (cognitive impairment
leading to agitation and inability to console; communication impairment which
affects care)
Written by: Matt LeBlanc