Shared on behalf of Adam Vinet, VP Patient Experience, Chief Nursing Executive, Regional VP Regional Cancer Centre
We continue to see an increase in the number of respiratory-related illnesses within our Inpatient Clinical Units and respiratory-related visits in our Emergency Department. As the level of viral respiratory activity increases within our communities, and to reduce further impacts on our care services, we will be stepping up our masking requirements effective Wednesday, November 1, 2023.
Please note that as of November 1st, masking will be required for all areas that provide clinical care services, including waiting areas. Masking will be required by all staff, professional staff, learners, volunteers and Essential Care Partners/Care Partners (ECPs/CPs) when entering an area that provides clinical care.
Effective immediately, masking will be required within the following areas at all times:
- All Inpatient Units
- All Departments and Outpatient Units where clinical services are provided, including waiting areas
- Emergency Department – all areas including the waiting areas
- Cancer Centre – all areas including waiting areas
- Transitional Care Unit (TCU)
Additionally, all staff, professional staff, learners, volunteers and Essential Care Partners/Care Partners (ECPs/CPs) are encouraged to maintain six feet of physical distancing and if not able then wear a level 3 mask.
We ask that you please abide by the above requirements to prevent further steps towards mandatory masking facility-wide. As well, abide by any additional IPAC protocols and practice proper hand hygiene.
Public communication and signage will be provided to support the above requirements.
Further communication will occur on this topic as required.
Thank you for your commitment to keeping our patients, staff and Hospital safe. If you have any questions, please ask your manager or reach out to IPAC (684-6094) for further details on best practices.