WNH Implements Visitation Restrictions

Feb 06, 2019

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William Newton Hospital Infection Control Coordinator Melanie Burnett, MSN, RN, announced Tuesday that the facility is implementing visitation restrictions due to an increase of positive influenza cases.

The hospital asks visitors experiencing any signs or symptoms of influenza, including coughing, fever/chills, runny nose, sore throat, or muscle/body aches to stay home or wear a mask.

“It’s important for visitors to take precautions to protect themselves and loved ones from contracting the virus,” Burnett emphasized.

The emergency department will also limit children from entering the unit, unless they are a patient.

In addition, William Newton Hospital and affiliated clinics are increasing supplies at hand hygiene stations and cleaning surfaces more frequently.

Burnett works with hospital administration to determine when to implement more restrictive policies. This occurs following an increase in the number of emergency department visits and when the number of positive flu swabs is 20 percent or greater.

In addition to an increase in hospital admissions for the flu, Burnett said one healthcare provider has tested positive. Burnett stressed that additional precautions not only protect patients, but employees as well. “WNH frequently has patients with compromised immune systems. We have to protect our caregivers too.”

“If you have the flu, or show symptoms, please do your part in preventing the spread,” stressed Burnett. “Stay home, get lots of rest, drink plenty of water, and of course wash your hands frequently with soap and water.”