In consultation with the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit, outbreaks were declared on the following:
- There are no outbreaks at this time.
Visits are suspended on programs in outbreak. Please contact the program to arrange a virtual visit.
Home Patients & Families Visiting Waypoint Infection Prevention & Control
Outbreak Update
Masks
Effective April 4, 2024, masks are not universally required at Waypoint.
In inpatient settings, masks will only be required for the following:
- When the patient is in additional precautions; or
- A point of care risk assessment identifies the need for a mask; or
- You are providing direct care to a patient. Direct care means you will be 6 feet or closer to the patient and will be directly interacting with the patient. Examples include assisting with ADL or completing a set of vital signs, completing an assessment, etc.
In outpatient settings, masks will no longer be required when interacting with patients unless a point of care risk assessment identifies there is a risk that requires the use of a mask (for example the patient is coughing).
The hospital remains mask-friendly. Masks are available and can be worn at any time.
Screening for Illness
Everyone must self-screen before entering the building. Staff must self-screen daily at the beginning of their shift – by entering the building you are attesting that you have self-screened.
Screening questions:
- Do you have any of the following four (4) symptoms not related to known allergies or other chronic conditions: fever and/or chills, cough, shortness of breath, decrease or loss of taste or smell? AND/OR
- Two or more of the following new or worsening symptoms: runny nose/nasal congestion, headache, extreme fatigue, sore throat, muscle aches/joint pain, nausea/vomiting and/or diarrhea?
Understanding Germs and How They Spread
Germs are tiny organisms, often called bugs, microorganisms, viruses, or bacteria. They are invisible to the naked eye. While some germs are beneficial, others can cause illness by entering the body through the eyes, nose, mouth, or open wounds.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) includes items like gowns, gloves, masks, goggles, and face shields designed to protect against injury or infection. In a hospital setting, PPE is crucial for protecting your eyes, nose, and mouth—the primary entry points for germs.
Additional PPE in the Hospital:
In some situations, you may need extra PPE, such as gowns, face visors, and gloves. The hospital will provide these items, and a healthcare provider will guide you on safely removing them.
Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) refers to the measures taken to prevent the spread of germs. You might hear this term in the hospital. Examples of IPAC practices include physical distancing, screening for illness, disinfecting surfaces, wearing masks, and limiting close contact.
Viruses like COVID-19 spreads easily among people, often without their knowledge. The virus is transmitted through tiny droplets from the mouth or nose, especially when an infected person sneezes, coughs, or touches their face and other surfaces.
Hand Hygiene:
- Washing with Soap and Water:
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- Wet your hands under running water.
- Apply soap to your wet hands.
- Rub your hands together for 15-20 seconds, creating bubbles.
- Rinse thoroughly under running water.
- Dry your hands.
- Using Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizer:
- Apply a quarter-sized amount of sanitizer to your dry palm.
- Rub your hands together for 15-20 seconds until dry, ensuring all areas are covered.
Always clean your hands before entering and after leaving a patient’s room.
Wearing Masks and Eye Protection:
- Masks and eye protection/face shields are mandatory at all times.
- Ensure your mask covers your nose and mouth completely.
- Wash your hands before putting on or removing your mask and eye protection.
- Do not pull the mask under your chin or let it hang off one ear.
- Opt for Virtual Visits: When possible, choose virtual visits to minimize in-person contact.
- Limit In-Person Visits: Visit the hospital only for essential reasons, keep visits brief, and complete multiple tasks at once.
- Follow IPAC Practices: Complete infection safety training and adhere to all IPAC guidelines.
- Be Open to Guidance: Follow infection prevention advice from staff and the healthcare team.
- Leave Promptly: After your visit, leave the hospital promptly to reduce the number of people in the facility.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure the safety of patients, staff, and Care Partners during in-person visits.