News
Oct. 3, 2009
Kootenai Medical Center tightens visitor policy for flu season
Kootenai Medical Center today announced immediate changes to its visitor policy to help prevent the spread of influenza.
Kootenai R.N. Lee Rieken, infection prevention coordinator, said the provisions will remain in effect until the risk of contracting and spreading flu has subsided.
"Our best defense against the spread of infectious disease is to do everything in our power to prevent unnecessary exposure. We are adopting the recommendations of our federal and state health departments for the protection of our patients," Rieken said.
As of now, Kootenai's guidelines state that:
- Only immediate family members 18 and older are permitted to visit patients in pediatrics, the birthing center, intensive care, cardiac intensive care and oncology areas.
- Visitors must check in at nurses' stations before entering patient rooms.
- If asked, visitors must wear surgical masks provided by Kootenai.
- Visitors should wash their hands or use hand sanitizer before entering and leaving a patient's room.
- Those feeling feverish or suffering from colds, sore throats, flu-like symptoms and other illnesses should stay home.
For more information on preventing the spread of flu, visit kootenaihealth.org.
For information on this release, contact:
Paula Davenport 208-666-2355 or pdavenport@kmc.org
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