General infection prevention instructions for visits in health care and residential facilities
General infection prevention instructions for visits in health care and residential facilities
Each health care facility has its own instructions, policies and recommendations regarding visits and the presence of caregivers in order to protect the health of users and prevent the spread of germs.
The facility’s general instructions for visits must be followed at all times. Other more restrictive instructions may apply:
to ensure the protection of more vulnerable people (e.g., immunosuppressed people);
in specialized units (e.g., oncology, organ transplants, etc.);
in facilities where there is an outbreak.
The presence of caregivers or visitors is allowed and valued in all health care and residential facilities in order to provide meaningful support.
Family members, caregivers, visitors, including young children, must follow these instructions:
Postpone the visit for anyone who has symptoms of an infectious disease, such as:
signs of respiratory infection (COVID‑19, flu, cold) such as fever or cough,
signs of gastroenteritis, such as diarrhea or vomiting.
The visit must also be postponed if the person has been advised to self‑isolate because they are suspected of being infected, or waiting on a test or a test result for a contagious disease.
In an exceptional situation where the visit cannot be postponed, it must be discussed with the user’s health care team.
It is also important to follow additional precautions and instructions at the door of the room or unit, when required.