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Health Sciences North now requiring facemasks for visitors

Masks serve as an added step to protect others from your germs when physical distancing is challenging or not possible, such as getting into an elevator
2504 Facemask 9680 km
A typical home-made facemask. Health experts say that wearing a mask, even a homemade one, can reduce your risk of transmitting the novel coronavirus to other people. KEVIN MA/St. Albert Gazette

HSN in Sudbury has started asking all patients and visitors coming to the hospital to wear a mask as an added step to reduce the spread of germs and protect vulnerable patients.

"Handmade masks are acceptable, as are those available at retailers in the community," says a news release. "Patients will still be seen in the Emergency Department, regardless if they are wearing a mask."

Masks serve as an added step to protect others from your germs when physical distancing is challenging or not possible, such as getting into an elevator. 

"A mask is not a replacement for handwashing or social distancing. Patients coming to the hospital should continue to practice safe social distancing, wherever possible, and regular handwashing, especially when entering and exiting the building," adds the release.

Meanwhile, visitor restrictions remain in effect at HSN during the pandemic. Only essential visitors are permitted at the hospital until further notice. The definition of an “essential visitor” has been updated. Patients with communication, physical or cognitive impairments, or those experiencing mental health crisis preventing the appropriate provision of care are allowed one consistent visitor.

A child or youth is allowed one approved parent or guardian visitor. Patients having emergency, unscheduled surgery are allowed one visitor for one visit only. Patients giving birth are allowed one consistent visitor. Patients at risk of imminent death are allowed two consistent visitors.