by Kevin Zimmermann
(WHBL) – It will be easier for patients at St. Nicholas and other HSHS hospitals in Wisconsin to safely receive visitors as restrictions are eased. HSHS Wisconsin President and CEO Andrew Bagnall made that announcement Wednesday, saying that as signs of an easing pandemic appear, policies will be adjusted while still protecting patients and staff.
Effective immediately, all adult patients – as well as those undergoing surgery – can have one support person who must remain in the patient room at all times.
Emergency department patients may have one support person in the patient room – with consideration for extenuating circumstances.
Special arrangements will be made on a case-by-case basis for end-of-life situations, and outpatient service patients, pediatric and obstetrical patients may also have one support person. The exception: both parents of newborns may be present, and obstetric patients may have one support person as well as Doula support.
All visitors will still undergo COVID-19 screening and temperature checks before being allowed into the hospital.
