Keeping You Safe. Keeping You Healthy.
We know you have concerns about returning to our hospital and clinics, and we’re working hard to make sure you get the care you need as safely and effectively as possible. In addition to our routine safety procedures, we are taking extra steps to minimize risks at our hospital and clinics.
It is important to not delay or avoid care for chronic conditions, such as diabetes, or ongoing treatment for existing conditions, such as cancer, which can result in more serious health issues if treatment is missed. Regular wellness visits also shouldn’t be avoided. Vaccinations and screenings to detect disease in the early stages are vital for maintaining your health. As always, you should seek emergency treatment right away for any health emergency, such as potential stroke or heart attack. Early treatment is critical for the best possible recovery.
COVID-19 concerns call for additional safety and screening measures on top of what we’ve always done. At your next appointment you can expect to see some changes designed to make it as safe as possible to get needed care during this pandemic.
How We’re Keeping You Safe
We are limiting contact and encouraging physical distancing. We are also reducing the number of people in a space at one time by staggering appointments and limiting the number of visitors and companions. When possible, we are providing a way for patients to sign consent forms and fill out paperwork online, reducing the amount of time spent at check-in.
Robust Cleaning
We have always followed proven safety practices, including cleaning rooms between patients. In addition, we have implemented enhanced cleaning between patients and more frequent deep cleaning of all other areas, including hand rails, door handles and elevator buttons.
Infection Control
We are screening patients and visitors in our facilities by asking specific questions about symptoms and taking temperatures, when appropriate. We also have a universal mask policy in place, requiring masks for all staff, patients and visitors. Extra hand sanitizer and handwashing procedures are in place for our healthcare team and patients.
Visitor Restrictions
All visitors must pass a screening process prior to entry and be able to maintain a face mask at all times while in the hospital. Effective July 1, 2020 one screened visitor is allowed in most inpatient areas. Outpatients having surgery or a procedure may have one visitor. Outpatients requiring assistance navigating their appointment may also have a screened companion. Patients under COVID-19 investigation or COVID positive may not have any visitors unless approved for visitation due to end of life care. We understand visitor restrictions can be frustrating, especially when dealing with difficult health concerns, but it is important to minimize exposure to our patients and care team during this pandemic.
Virtual Care Options
We have expanded our virtual care options so patients can get care without ever leaving home. Learn more about the types of virtual care options we offer and how to schedule an appointment.
What to Know about Surgery
For patients who have surgery scheduled, additional safety measures are in place, including COVID-19 screening before their surgery. We have more frequent cleanings for patient rooms and common areas. Patients with COVID-19 symptoms are isolated in separate areas away from all other patients. While strict limits are in place for visitors, our surgery patients are allowed a brief visit in the recovery area after their procedure.
Blog: Giving Birth during COVID-19 - One Mother's Experience
The COVID-19 Pandemic has reshaped the birthing experience for many new parents, with many changes in place to keep patients, teammates and the community safe and healthy while reducing the spread of the virus. For Jill Howell, the key to weathering these changes was patience and a focus on staying well informed.
Read more to learn more about Jill's experience.
Blog: Surgery during a Pandemic - What You Need to Know
If you have a surgical procedure in your future, you may be wondering whether now is even the time for elective surgery. We asked Wayne UNC Director of Perianesthesia, Catherine Hedrick, RN, BSN to weigh in on the types of procedures our Surgical Team is currently performing and steps we are taking to provide the best care to all patients throughout the pandemic.
Read the Directors Q and A
