Easing of visiting restrictions at RVH
March 03, 2022
As of Tuesday, March 1, 2022, Renfrew Victoria Hospital eased visiting restrictions in step with hospitals across the region.
“The regional approach is based on guidance from public health and is meant to make the policy as consistent as possible throughout the Champlain region in order to reduce confusion,” stated Julia Boudreau, RVH CEO.
While it is encouraging that cases and hospitalization numbers continue to trend downwards, COVID-19 transmission continues in the community, and changes to visiting are being made cautiously in hospitals, which are considered a ‘highest risk setting’.
“We understand the importance of loved ones to our patients and their wellbeing, as well as the need to get back to normal as soon as possible. However, we also have to do all we can to protect vulnerable patients and ensure the safety of our staff and physicians,” said Boudreau.
In order to reduce risks, vaccination and screening policies remain in place, but visiting has been expanded to two designated visitors per patient, with one designated visitor allowed per day. Patients are also allowed one designated essential care provider.
Visiting hours remain limited to 1 pm to 5 pm on the Acute Care Unit (2nd floor) and 2 pm to 6 pm for Complex Continuing Care (3rd floor). Visitors must comply with all COVID-19 safety measures when visiting RVH. This includes:
- wearing a mask that covers the nose and mouth at all time during the visit
- performing hand hygiene when entering and leaving the patient’s room and the facility
- remaining in the patient’s room for the duration of the visit
- refraining from consuming food or beverages while in the hospital
It should be noted that patients who are COVID positive cannot have visitors at this time (unless palliative and following strict infection control guidelines).
“I want to thank everyone for their patience and understanding as we slowly implement changes and monitor the impact before transitioning to the next phase of reopening. Our first priority is always the safety of our patients, families, visitors, staff and physicians,” noted Boudreau.
This visitor policy is subject to change based on public health guidance. Up-to-date information can be found on the RVH website or by speaking with a member of the health care team.
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For more information, please contact:
Julia Boudreau, CEO,
Renfrew Victoria Hospital & St. Francis Memorial Hospital
613-432-4851, ext. 260