IU Health has updated temporary visitor guidelines to support personal connections with patients.
The new guidelines went into effect Jan. 19. Patients at all IU Health hospitals and facilities who are not positive or suspected to have COVID-19 are allowed one visitor per day.
“We know from experience that connections with loved ones are a key part of the healing process for patients and contribute to their overall recovery,” stated Jason Gilbert, executive vice president and chief nursing officer at IU Health. “We are confident our safety protocols can prevent the spread of COVID-19 while allowing patients to have contact with those who matter most to them.”
The visitor must be 18 or older. Visitors are screened for COVID-19 and must follow all COVID-19 protocols. Visitors must wear a hospital-provided mask at all times, including in the patient’s room. If the visitor must leave the hospital during their visit, they may not return the same day. They also are not allowed to sleep overnight in a patient’s room, unless in special circumstances.
Patients in the NICU unit and in end-of-life situations can receive two designated visitors. Outpatient and clinic visitor guidelines enable a patient to bring one adult companion to the appointment.
For more, visit iuhealth.org. For visitor guidelines for Riley Hospital for Children at IU Health, visit rileychildrens.org.
