Visitation rules scaled back at Alberta hospitals due to COVID surge

EDMONTON – Albertans won’t be able to see their sick loved ones in hospitals for much longer.

Alberta Health Services (AHS) says due to surging COVID-19 case counts and hospitalizations, visitors will be limited in the province’s medical centres.

“We encourage patients, family and friends to maintain contact virtually rather than in-person. Thank you for your continued patience and cooperation as we protect patients, families, staff, and physicians and work to ensure our sites remain safe for all Albertans,” said AHS on its website.

Starting Monday, AHS says two people can be designated as support persons, though only one person is allowed to accompany anyone admitted to the ER.

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“Seniors, minors and patients with mobility and/or cognitive challenges should be given priority to have their designated support person remain with them in-person,” said AHS.

Two people will be allowed to be on-site in end-of-life situations.

For maternity, two designated people can be on-site if physical distancing can be maintained.

AHS says one additional support person will be considered for the infant in cases of surrogacy or adoption.

As for ambulatory services, only one person will be allowed if masking and physical distancing is maintained — though two support persons will be allowed if pre-arranged with the clinic and in situations that include:

• The need for assisting the patient and staff with patient care;
• End-of-life care or goals of care designation (GCD) discussions;
• Significant diagnosis/change in medical status leading to poor prognosis;
• Behaviour challenges requiring two caregiver;
• Medical or equipment needs requiring two caregivers;
• Involvement of Social Services; and/or
• When requested by the care team.

 

When it comes to pediatrics, sibling visitation for inpatients is being temporarily restricted to monthly visits for long-stay patients and patients who are at end-of-life.

“Sibling visitation must be approved by site command post and follow guidance from Infection Prevention & Control (IP&C). An adult must accompany sibling(s) if they are under the age of 14 at all times.”