Hospitals, residential care homes curbing visitor numbers as Covid-19 cases rise, Latest Singapore News

Due to the increase in Covid-19 cases in the community, visitor safety measures will be enhanced in all wards and residential care homes for four weeks from October 14th to November 10th.

The Ministry of Health (MOH) said patients are only allowed two pre-designated visitors, and only one person can be at the bedside at a time.

Critically ill patients are allowed up to five pre-designated visitors, two of whom may be at the bedside at all times.

Single visits are limited to 30 minutes.

In exceptional circumstances, such as critically ill or pediatric patients, expectant or postpartum mothers, and those requiring additional care support, visitors may stay longer than 30 minutes on a case-by-case basis at the discretion of the hospital. may be allowed. .

Visitors are not allowed to eat, drink or use patient toilets in the ward.

Also, you should avoid sitting on the patient’s bed.

Residential Care Home Visitors can have up to four pre-designated visitors, and only one visitor at a time is allowed for a maximum of 30 minutes.

Visitors should continue to plan their visits in advance and adhere to the general security measures when visiting.

Visits may need to be suspended if the home is managing an active Covid-19 case.

Visitors to hospitals and nursing homes should ensure that they are well and are strongly encouraged to undergo a rapid antigen test on the day of their visit.

Hospitals and homes have discretion to impose stricter visitor restrictions or testing requirements for vulnerable or unvaccinated patient visitors.

The health ministry said the enhanced measures are to protect medical capacity and vulnerable populations during this period of rising cases.

There were 9,611 new Covid-19 cases on Wednesday, down from a post-weekend spike of 11,732 on Tuesday.

There were 4,719 new local cases on Monday.

The MOH added that the hospital’s emergency department sees a large number of patients every day.

The public is advised to head there only in case of emergency.

Anyone, even a child, who shows up to the emergency department with a non-urgent condition may be asked to go to another clinic instead.

“The MOH will regularly review and adjust these measures in line with the evolving Covid-19 situation,” it said.

“We seek the understanding and cooperation of our patients, residents, their families and loved ones to reduce the risk of Covid-19 transmission in healthcare facilities.”