CENTRAL Gippsland Health has moved into partial lockdown of Sale Hospital as part of new restrictions in place in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
CGH chief executive Frank Evans said the move was essential in keeping patients, their families and friends safe, and reduce the spread of coronavirus into hospitals by people who may pose a risk.
“We realise this will be upsetting and concerning to some people, but the health and safety of everyone in our care and our staff is our priority,” Dr Evans said.
“Victoria’s health system is prepared for an emerging coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, with a new plan to manage more cases and the growing risk of an outbreak in Victoria.
“We ask for your understanding at this critical time for our community.”
The new restrictions mean all visitors can expect to be screened on entry and cannot visit if they have:
* Been diagnosed with coronavirus and have not been discharged from isolation;
* Arrived in Australia within 14 days of their planned visit;
* Recently come into contact with a person who has a confirmed case of coronavirus; or
* Have a temperature over 37.5 degrees or symptoms of acute respiratory infection.
All entries to the health service are being locked down to swipe card access only, with the exception of the emergency department and the front reception.
These two areas will be monitored by nursing staff, with visitors required to submit to a temperature assessment before entry.
Heyfield and Maffra hospitals have applied the directive issued by the Chief Health Officer that all visitors to residential age care facilities cease between noon on March 24 and 6pm on April 13, with some exemptions as per this directive.
To support residents to remain connected with families and friends, some iPads have been provided to help remote interaction via Skype.
For updated information on CGH services, go to the website at www.cgh.com.au or follow CGH on Facebook.
