Universal masking is mandatory at KHSC. All people entering into or working at the hospital must wear a hospital-issued mask even if they do not have any signs of an infection.
- Admitted patients must wear a hospital-issued mask during care if they are on contact/droplet or contact/aerosol precautions AND when they are outside their room.
- Visitors must wear a hospital-issued mask at all times, including at the bedside.
- Outpatients and those who accompany them ("Caregivers") must wear a hospital-issued mask that will be provided at the entrance.
- All staff, physicians, staff and learners must wear a hospital-issued mask at all times.
Why I am being asked to wear a hospital-issued mask?
COVID-19 may be spread by people who do not have any symptoms. Asking healthy people to wear a hospital-issued mask can help to prevent this asymptomatic spread to other patients, visitors and our health care providers.
What if I don’t want to wear a hospital-issued mask?
KHSC requires all patients and visitors to wear a hospital-issued mask. If there is a reason why you are not able to wear one, such as a health condition that may make it hard for you to breathe, tell your health care team. They will discuss your situation and your options with you.
Will I get a hospital-issued mask when I arrive?
When you self-screen at a hospital entrance you will expected to put on a hospital-issued mask and to clean your hands. Signage will direct you to masks and hand rub.
Can I take my hospital-issued mask off once my appointment is over?
Please leave your hospital-issued mask on the entire time you are inside the building. Only remove it at the exit. If you need to take it off to eat or drink, or as part of your appointment, first wash your hands and then remove your mask carefully, without touching your face.
How do I safely remove my hospital-issued mask?
It is important that you remove your mask carefully to reduce your risk of infection. First: wash your hands using soap and water or hand sanitizer. Grab your mask by the ear loops and pull it away from your face. Do not touch your face or the outside of the mask. Place the mask in a garbage bin. After you remove your mask, wash your hands again
What should I do if my hospital-issued mask gets wet or dirty?
If your mask gets wet or dirty during your appointment, let your care team know that you need a new mask.
Are patients admitted to the hospital (inpatients) also wearing hospital-issued masks?
Admitted patients must wear a hospital-issued mask during care if they are on contact/droplet or contact/aerosol precautions AND when they are outside their room.
Will my care team be wearing a mask?
All staff, physicians and learners working in clinical care areas and staff working in non-clinical areas must wear a hospital-issued mask.
How can I learn more about masks?
If you have any questions about wearing a hospital-issued mask while on site, please ask your health care team.