COVID-19: Vitalité Health Network adjusts its guidelines for designated support persons and visitors
Bathurst, Monday, October 18, 2021 – Vitalité Health Network is making adjustments to its guidelines for designated support persons (DSPs) and visitors.
As of November 19, 2021, designated support persons will need to be fully vaccinated to have access to Vitalité Health Network hospitals. Eligible patients will be asked to identify a fully vaccinated designated support person. If this is not possible, an unvaccinated designated support person will be allowed to visit if they meet the following COVID-19 testing requirements:
Between October 18 and November 19, unvaccinated designated support persons will be required to:
- Show proof of a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of the visit. If it is not possible to get a screening test before admission, the test should be scheduled as soon as possible, and the test date communicated to the health care team. The negative test result must be demonstrated when received.
- Get tested on days 5 and 10 if visits continue, and present evidence of negative test results.
- Get tested twice a week if visits continue after day 10 and present evidence of negative test results.
- Not have symptoms of COVID-19.
- Practise proper hand hygiene, wear a mask, limit movement inside the hospital, agree to go only to the patient's room, respect physical distancing (2 metres), and limit interactions with staff, other patients and visitors.
For Emergency Department or Ambulatory Care visits
- Only one designated support person is allowed for patients requiring physical or emotional support, decision-making or communication assistance. This person must be fully vaccinated.
- If the DSP is not fully vaccinated, the COVID-19 testing requirements listed above apply. Exceptions can be made for the DSP accompanying pediatric patients, patients with special needs and for Emergency Department visits.
