Flu Alert
SRHS Temporarily Changes Visitation Policy in Light of Flu
This year’s flu and cold season has already proven a challenge. Now, healthcare organizations like Samaritan Regional Health System (SRHS) are taking a proactive approach to protect patients, visitors, volunteers, and staff.
Samaritan Hospital has adopted a temporary visitation policy, one that limits visitors to healthy individuals over the age of 18. Please, do not visit the hospital if you have a fever, a sore throat, cough or runny nose.
“It’s a well known fact that H1N1 is hitting youngsters and teens at a greater rate than adults,” nurse Brenda Foster, Infection Preventionist, explained. “We certainly appreciate the positive affect visitors have on our patients, but felt it prudent to do our part to protect everyone who walks through our doors.”
Hand washing and vaccinations are still the two most powerful weapons used to stop the spread of germs. Also, cough or sneeze into your elbow, and stay home until you are fever free for at least 24 hours, without the use of fever reducing medicine.
“By respecting the serious nature of a contagious virus like influenza, we are inherently respecting each other,” Danny Boggs, president and CEO of SRHS said. “Many other hospitals have adopted a visiting policy similar to ours as a means to reduce the spread of the virus.”
Officials at SRHS will communicate daily with the local health department and implement further changes if necessary.
Ill visitors utilizing Samaritan Pharmacy or outpatient services for testing are encouraged to use a mask, available at the Reception Desk, Registration podium in the main lobby, and at the pharmacy counter. Masks also are available in the Emergency Department, and hand sanitizer is conveniently located throughout the entire hospital.
“We want everyone to know we are in this together,” Boggs emphasized. “With your cooperation, limited visitation will be successfully implemented. Thank you for embracing this opportunity to protect each other and to reduce the impact to our community.”
Click here for additional information about the flu.
