NewsCoronavirus

Actions

UK HealthCare announces COVID-19 Visitation Restrictions

Posted at 12:59 PM, Mar 19, 2020
and last updated 2020-03-19 12:59:52-04

LEXINGTON, Kentucky (LEX 18) — UK HealthCare has announced measures to restrict visitors in its hospitals and clinics to help limit the spread of COVID-19. Starting immediately, only one designated visitor, age 18 or older, will be permitted in patient areas. This includes inpatient visitors at UK Chandler Hospital, Kentucky Children's Hospital and UK Good Samaritan Hospital, as well as anyone accompanying patients to clinics, including Kentucky Clinics and UK HealthCare Turfland.

UK HealthCare Officials add that children should not visit or accompany UK HealthCare patients except for end-of-life and other extreme situations when approved. Exceptions will be made for situations such as: end-of-life or hospice care, mother in labor, patients with cognitive, physical or mental disability requiring help and other situations on a case by case basis.

If approved to visit, UK HealthCare has instituted special rules to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. These include:

  • Remain in the patient’s room, except for quick trips to the bathroom or to purchase food.
  • Limit the number of personal items brought into the hospital.
  • When visiting is over, leave the hospital and not spend time in public areas, including lobbies, waiting areas, cafeterias and vending areas.
  • You may be screened for symptoms of respiratory illness (fever, runny nose, cough and shortness of breath) prior to entering one of our hospitals and clinics. Anyone with a positive health screen will not be able to visit and will be directed to the proper resources if you are suspected of having COVID-19.
  • You MUST wash your hands or use hand sanitizer every time you enter or exit a patient room.

To stay connected with family and friends in a UK HealthCare facility, it is recommended to connect with their health care team through technology. Hospital phones are available in patient room and families are encouraged to use cell phones and computers to stay connected.

“We ask for your cooperation and assistance in complying with these restrictions,” said Dr. Mark Newman, University of Kentucky executive vice president for health affairs. “We appreciate your understanding during this time that the safety and well-being of our patients, employees and our community is our greatest concern and priority in making these decisions.”