Photo: Pembroke Regional Hospital
Hospitals in the Ottawa Valley are putting in additional restrictions as the COVID-19 Omicron variant is contributing to record breaking case counts in Renfrew County and across Canada.
The Pembroke Regional Hospital (PRH) is further restricting visitors to protect patients, staff, physicians and the community.
The changes took effect on Wednesday, December 29th, 2021.
PRH is restricting all general visitors and will only be allowing the presence of one designated essential caregiver/care partner per admitted patient for the duration of their stay except under specific circumstances classified as exceptions.
Those exceptions include:
- Those visiting patients at the end-of-life
- Labour and Delivery
- One support person in the Emergency Department
- Parents of children under the age of 18
- Individuals under the age of 12
- Individuals who are essential to accompany patients to appointments or participate in the delivery of care
- Other critical or urgent circumstances requiring family presence
It should also be noted that all designated essential caregivers / care partners must be fully vaccinated unless they meet an exception criteria and must pass entrance screening prior to entering the hospital.
PRH President and CEO Pierre Noel says while no one wants to see a return to tighter restrictions and safety measures, the current circumstances have led to this decision.
Noel asks for patience and understanding as well as continued vigilance around masking, hand hygiene and ensuring that those who are eligible are vaccinated.
Up to date information about COVID-19 related measures can be found on the hospital’s website, or by speaking with a member of the healthcare team.
The PRH Visitor Policy is subject to further changes based on public health guidance.