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Hospital loosens visiting restrictions

NEWS RELEASE SAULT AREA HOSPITAL *********************** Change to visiting policy on maternity unit September 20, 2005 – SAH has introduced changes to the visiting policy on the Maternity Unit, effective immediately.
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NEWS RELEASE

SAULT AREA HOSPITAL

*********************** Change to visiting policy on maternity unit

September 20, 2005 – SAH has introduced changes to the visiting policy on the Maternity Unit, effective immediately.

As previously reported, SAH experienced higher birth and NICU volumes than expected over the recent summer months.

The average number of births increased from 68 since 2002 to 80 in June, 82 in July and 93 in August.

In the 10-bed NICU, the hospital has cared for an average of 13 patients for most of June and July.

For greater flexibility for visitors and staff, SAH is now allowing two visitors at any one time during regular hospital visiting hours.

The visitors will no longer be restricted to grandparents, making the policy less restrictive and easier to implement.

The following is a summary of the revised policy:

Labour and delivery

• partner and/or coach only (two consistent individuals)

• family may visit for a short time immediately after the birth during recovery room period - at the discretion of the nurse

Maternity • partner may stay overnight to assist mother when baby is in room

• partners not staying overnight may visit at any time

• only two visitors may visit at a time during regular hospital visiting hours, which are 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

• only children allowed are siblings of newborn

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David Helwig

About the Author: David Helwig

David Helwig's journalism career spans seven decades beginning in the 1960s. His work has been recognized with national and international awards.
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