BOISE, Idaho — Hospitals across the country are taking measures to keep patients, visitors, and staff safe as COVID-19 cases continue to rise.
Saint Alphonsus Health System is among the hospitals taking measures to protect patient and colleague health and safety. Officials announced the new measures Thursday based on information from the CDC, Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, and the Oregon Health Authority.
The following restrictions will be in place immediately at SAHS hospitals in Idaho and Oregon:
- Visitors with respiratory symptoms (cough, wheeze, shortness of breath, congestion) or fever above 100.4° F will be provided a mask and asked to return home or seek medical attention;
- Patients with respiratory symptoms or fever, presenting for diagnosis, treatment or other medical care, will be offered a mask before entering a Saint Alphonsus facility and before being permitted to proceed directly to their clinic or care location;
- One visitor per patient at a time;
- No visitors under 14 years of age;
- Do not visit if you are sick.
Only visits from immediate family members, patient advocates and clergy who meet the above criteria will be permitted to visit with patients.
Additionally, visitors are reminded that they should wash their hands frequently with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer. They should also use a tissue to cover any coughs and sneezes, and if they are at risk for illness or have any symptoms, to stay home.
Posters outlining the new guidelines have been posted at all entrances to Saint Alphonsus hospitals in Boise, Nampa, Ontario and Baker City, Oregon. Similar guidance posters will be in Saint Alphonsus clinics soon.
