Pembroke Regional Hospital has changed its mask policy to match other hospitals in the region. According to PRH President and CEO Sabine Mersmann, COVID is now a regular respiratory virus and the hospital is adjusting to its ‘new normal’.
She said that masks are optional for those who feel safe without them, except in the Emergency Department and the Chemotherapy unit, where they are still mandatory. This is to protect patients who are more prone to infection. The hospital will provide masks for anyone who asks for them.
In addition, masks are still required:
- When someone coming for an outpatient appointment is unwell.
- If a patient or visitor is asked to wear a mask by their health care provider.
- If there is signage that indicates masks are required to enter the patient care space.
Pembroke Regional Hospital staff and physicians will also mask based on the following five scenarios:
- If a patient asks staff to wear a mask.
- If a staff member’s point-of-care risk assessment suggests they should be wearing a mask to protect their mucous membranes from splash or spray of blood or body fluids, or to protect a vulnerable patient from their respiratory secretions.
- If there is signage, such as a droplet/contact precautions sign that indicates masks are required to enter the patient care space.
- If a unit is on outbreak, requiring all patient care to be delivered wearing a mask.
- If a staff member is on Work Self Isolation.
The hospital has put up new signs that show the mask policy in different areas. Please be aware that the mask rules may change depending on the risk level of the community. If this happens, PRH will inform the community.
(Written by Luke Notman)
