Information for Families, Visitors, and Designated Caregivers during an Outbreak

WHAT IS AN OUTBREAK?

An outbreak is the spread of the same illness (e.g., influenza [the flu] or norovirus [stomach bug]) among a group of people living or working in the same place at the same time.

Outbreaks in healthcare facilities can be very stressful for patients/residents/clients, staff, visitors, and family members. However, for patients/residents/clients, outbreaks can also be life-threatening. When there is an outbreak, infection control measures are put in place to reduce the risk of spreading the illness and to help keep patients/residents/clients, families, staff, and visitors safe.

Some common measures put in place during an outbreak are:

  • Increased cleaning and disinfection
  • Ensuring infection control practices are followed
  • Restricting social gatherings
  • Keeping those who are sick in their rooms
  • Implementing visitor restrictions
  • Limiting the movement of staff between units

WILL VISITATION BE COMPLETELY RESTRICTED?

We look at the cause of the outbreak and whether we are able to contain the spread of the infection, and make a decision based on the information. During outbreaks, general visitors are not permitted except in certain circumstances (e.g., end of life), but Designated Caregivers are permitted to meet care needs of the patient/resident/client.

INFECTION PREVENTION AND CONTROL GUIDELINES

Observe Outbreak Signage at entrance

  • Check in at the Nursing Station. Infection control measures may change several times during an outbreak. Staff at the nursing station will provide you with information on control measures that are being used at the time and help answer your questions
  • Follow instructions for personal protective equipment (e.g., gloves, masks, eye protection, gowns), if required
  • If a patient/resident/client is ill, they should not leave their room during visitation. Avoid taking them to a common area during your visit
  • To protect yourself, avoid common areas (e.g., dining room)
  • DO NOT visit if you feel ill. Visiting a patient/resident/client when you are not feeling well puts everyone in the facility at risk
  • DO NOT visit more than one patient/resident/client within the facility
  • KEEP YOUR HANDS CLEAN. Wash them using soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub (hand sanitizer)
    o When entering or leaving the facility
    o Before entering or leaving a patient/resident/client room
    o Before and after feeding or providing care to a patient/resident/client
    o Before eating
    o After using the washroom