As COVID-19 cases continue to trend downwards, Kingston Health Sciences Centre (KHSC) is increasing family presence to help support the well-being of patients and families.
Effective June 1, the revised family presence (visitor) policy now permits admitted patients to register three approved family visitors, with two visitors present at the bedside at any one time. Visiting hours continue to be 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.
As well, unvaccinated visitors are now permitted for admitted patients but the visitor must complete a negative rapid antigen test upon arrival at the hospital and must also pass screening.
All visitors must remain masked at all times, including at the bedside. Patients on quarantine may not have in-person visits until their quarantine period is cleared. Virtual visits are encouraged at any time.
In terms of outpatient services, KHSC continues to allow adult patients to be accompanied by one caregiver; in most instances, pediatric patients may be accompanied by two parents/guardians. The caregiver does not need to be registered or show proof of vaccination but must pass screening and remain masked at all times. Family presence may be restricted as required in some areas due to physical space limitations and high patient volumes.
Along with mandatory masking for all visitors, other infection control precautions including hand hygiene and physical distancing remain in place at KHSC. Families and visitors who are unwell are asked to avoid visiting or accompanying patients at both KHSC hospital sites.
To review the KHSC visitor policy visit www.KingstonHSC.ca/COVID19 and click on Visitor and Family Presence Restrictions.
