Outbreak triggers visitor restrictions at hospital

The Sault Area Hospital has implemented visitor restrictions to the 3A, 3B and 3C Inpatient Units due to a Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococci (VRE) outbreak.

Some exceptions will be made for those providing essential care or support to vulnerable patients, and for patients under end-of-life care.

Full details can be found in the Sault Area Hospital news release below:

Effective May 3, 2024, 3A, 3B and 3C Inpatient Units at Sault Area Hospital (SAH) have implemented visitor restrictions due to an outbreak of Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococci (VRE) and the heightened risk of infection for our patients.

Visiting guidelines:

• Visiting hours will be between 8:30 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. daily (exceptions may be made)
• There will be one visitor or one essential caregiver allowed to visit the patient at a time
• Visitors will not be allowed to visit multiple patients on the unit at one time
• All visitors must adhere to the personal protective equipment guidelines directed by staff
• Families will need to coordinate visits to ensure only one visitor is present at the patient’s bedside
• Visitors’ eating and drinking in the patient rooms is not allowed
• Visitors who demonstrate disruptive behaviour will be limited in their ability to visit

Exceptions will be made if a visitor provides support for a vulnerable patient (under the age of 18, with cognitive impairment, significant developmental and/or intellectual disability, or inability to communicate effectively) or if a patient is at the end of life.

SAH is committed to supporting our patients and their families during this time. If you have a loved one in the hospital, please reach out to the respective nursing station. Our team will facilitate regular check-ins or phone calls to help you stay connected.

The latest visitor information for SAH is available at SAH Visitor Guidance.