KHSC allowing increased family presence regardless of vaccination status

Kingston Health Sciences Centre (KHSC) has announced they are increasing family presence to help support the well-being of patients and families.

According to a media release from KHSC, this increase is due to the continued downward trend of COVID-19 cases in the KFL&A area.

Effective Wednesday, Jun. 1, 2022, the revised family presence (visitor) policy now permits admitted patients to register three approved family visitors, with two visitors present at the bedside at any one time. KHSC stated that visiting hours continue to be 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.

As well, unvaccinated visitors are now permitted for admitted patients, according to the release, but the visitor must complete a negative rapid antigen test upon arrival at the hospital and must also pass screening.

In April 2022, the family presence policy was updated to allow two registered visitors, with only one allowed in a room at one time. At that time, only visitors who had been vaccinated for COVID-19 were able to attend the hospital sites.

“All visitors must remain masked at all times, including at the bedside,” KHSC said. “Patients on quarantine may not have in-person visits until their quarantine period is cleared. Virtual visits are encouraged at any time.”

In terms of outpatient services, KHSC said that they continue to allow adult patients to be accompanied by one caregiver; in most instances, pediatric patients may be accompanied by two parents/guardians. According to the release, the caregiver does not need to be registered or show proof of vaccination but must pass screening and remain masked at all times. Family presence may be restricted as required in some areas due to physical space limitations and high patient volumes.

“Along with mandatory masking for all visitors, other infection control precautions including hand hygiene and physical distancing remain in place at KHSC,” the hospital agency stated. “Families and visitors who are unwell are asked to avoid visiting or accompanying patients at both KHSC hospital sites.”

Review the KHSC visitor policy at www.KingstonHSC.ca/COVID19 and click on Visitor and Family Presence Restrictions.