Regarding Masks
MHC is asking all members of the public that attend the hospital to wear a non-medical mask (for example, a homemade cloth mask or face covering) as an added step to protect others. People are being encouraged to bring face coverings from home in order to not deplete the hospitals supply of PPE. Please visit the Public Health Sudbury & Districts for instructions on how to safely use a non-medical mask https://www.phsd.ca/health-topics-programs/diseases-infections/coronavirus/guidance-for-wearing-non-medical-masks
For Visitor Restrictions During the COVID-19 Pandemic.
Visitor and Care Partner Allowed Access
As we gradually resume some services, we are making every effort possible to ease restrictions on visitors, while following guidance from the Ministry of Health. Since mid-March, only Essential Visitors have been allowed at MHC. These restrictions have been difficult on patients, their families, as well as our staff, but have been necessary to ensure everyone’s safety during the first wave of COVID-19.
MHC is modifying the term Essential Visitor to Designated Care Partner.
Only Designated Care Partners are allowed to visit the hospital.
Designated Care Partners are more than just visitors. They are crucial members of the care team and provide essential physical, emotional, social and spiritual support.
Designated Care Partners are defined as family members or other persons of significance in the life of the patient.
They are designated by the patient or Substitute Decision Maker (SDM) and work with them and the healthcare team to provide care, care planning and decision making.
Please note that times for care partner visitation may vary on different units to ensure adequate space for social distancing and other safety practices.
Designated Care Partners must wear a mask at all times when at the hospital. Handmade masks are acceptable as are those available at retailers in our community.
The following guidelines are in place for Designated Care Partners:
- Patients with communication, physical or cognitive impairments or those experiencing mental health crisis preventing the appropriate provision of care – One designated care partner.
- Patients requiring care partner for discharge instructions/training, significant care decisions, disclosure of potentially traumatic test results/prognosis – One designated care partner.
- Patients very ill or at risk of imminent death – Four designated care partners. Exceptions for additional care partners made on a compassionate basis.
- Patients having emergency, unscheduled admission – One designated care partner for one visit.
- Child or youth – Two designated care partners. One may visit at a time.
- Patients giving birth – Two designated care partner.
Care Partners must also pass screening at the main entrance to enter our buildings. Patients can still access the Emergency Department 24 hours a day.
If you have questions or concerns please contact a member of the care team by calling 705-368-2300 If you still have questions or concerns that cannot be addressed by your care team, please contact a nurse manager.
The MHC Team thanks you for your understanding.