Youth Visitation Policy
During Flu Season
According the to Centers for Disease Control (CDC), most cases of flu-like illness (fever with cough or sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, nausea, or vomiting) are occurring in children and young adults. As a result, Oconee Regional Medical Center, Jasper Memorial Hospital and their healthcare affiliates have implemented precautionary safety measures to limit the risk of flu exposure to patients, visitors, and hospital staff.
Effective Tuesday, December 1st, all visitors must be 17 years of age or older to enter patient treatment areas at Oconee Regional Medical Center, Jasper Memorial Hospital, the Oconee Wound Healing Center, the Oconee Cancer Treatment Center, and the Oconee Sleep and Wellness Center.
In addition, any visitor who exhibits flu-like symptoms will not be allowed to visit patients.
In extenuating circumstances, exceptions may be allowed on the age restriction policy, but will be determined on a case-by-case basis. Exceptions may include:
· A child whose parent or guardian is currently admitted or using outpatient services;
· A child or young adult who has a medical appointment within the hospital;
· A child who has critically-ill family member at the hospital with a life-threatening illness;
· A child whose parent or guardian is being treated at the Emergency Department.
Children who are granted an exception to this policy will be required to wear an orange wristband during their visit. In addition, all children under the age of 17 must be under adult supervision at all times.
This interim youth visitation policy will remain in effect throughout the current flu season, or until further notice.
On behalf of the entire staff of Oconee Regional Medical Center, thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we work together to minimize exposure to the influenza virus during this active flu season. |