A message to our patients, families, caregivers, and community

A message to our patients, families, caregivers, and community  

In our efforts to protect our patients, families, caregivers, and community during the outbreak of COVID-19, we are now moving to restrict companions within IMC following the restriction of visitors. We have put temporary measures into place that restrict routine companions, including family and friends, until the transmission of COVID-19 is no longer a threat.

While our patient care philosophy depends much on engaging families to be present as part of the healing process, the decision to restrict companions and limit family presence was difficult. It was only made after careful consideration as we witness schools and other venues restrict gatherings to prevent the spread of COVID-19. 

Therefore, effective immediately: 

Companions’ Exceptions: All hospital companions to the inpatient wards will be stopped effective March 25, 2020. 

• - Pediatrics up to age 14
• - Bedridden patients
• - Ventilated patients (outside critical care areas)
• - Patients with minimal range of motion (e.g., stroke, following a major surgical procedure)
• - Patients with dementia (e.g., Alzheimer)
• - Palliative patients · Psychiatric patients
• - Labor and Delivery mother of patient and husband, then only one from the two will be allowed into inpatient.

Companion wristband: 

All the companions, as mentioned above, will be issued a YELLOW wristband to assure patient identification and differentiation. The admission office on the ground floor and in ER will be the only two entities allowing patient companions.

As a companion:

• - You must remain in the patient’s room at all times.
• - Limit the number of personal items that you bring into the hospital. Bringing fewer items into the hospital will reduce the number of unwanted germs that you may take back home with you.
• - You must be screened for symptoms of respiratory illness (fever, runny nose, cough, and shortness of breath) before entering one of our wards and will be issued a sticker indicating that you have passed the health screening.
• - You must visibly wear a “sticker,” indicating that your health screening is negative. Anyone with a positive health screen will not be able to visit and directed to the proper resources if you are suspected of having COVID-19.

We appreciate your understanding during these uncertain times. Our goal is to protect you, your loved one, and our staff. You are in good hands.