Sparrow places temporary restrictions on patient visits to protect against influenza,
10/2/2009
Sparrow.org/flu launched to help answer questions about H1N1
LANSING, Mich. — Sparrow Hospital today announced temporary restrictions to help minimize the risk of vulnerable patients catching swine flu, also known as H1N1 influenza. Sparrow also announced the launch of Sparrow.org/flu, a Web site dedicated to answering people’s questions about H1N1.
The temporary restrictions, which will go into effect on Monday, Oct. 5, are as follows:
*Visitors to Labor and Delivery, OB Triage, OB Special Care, and the Mother-Baby Center will be limited to a patient’s well husband, significant other or support person, and well grandparents of the newborn.
*Regional Neo-natal Intensive Care Unit (RNICU) visitation will be limited to well parents and grandparents of newborn.
*Pediatrics and Pediatrics Intensive Care Unit visitation will be limited to well parents and well grandparents only.
*No children will be allowed on any of the above units.
“During this time of concern over the spread of flu, these temporary changes are a necessary and prudent precaution that will help protect our patients and their families," said Robin Roach, M.S, R.N.,C.I.C., Sparrow’s Director of Infection Prevention and Epidemiology. "The safety of our patients is always of utmost importance at Sparrow.”
Sparrow today also launched Sparrow.org/flu, a Web site featuring information on how people can protect themselves from the flu. Sparrow.org/flu will be updated throughout the influenza season.
H1N1 Swine Flu Facts and Recommendations
*Most people who get ill with H1N1 flu recover on their own, without additional treatment. If you are only mildly ill, you don’t need to seek medical care or treatment.
*If you are moderately to severely ill with a cough or sore throat and a fever over 100 degrees, particularly if you have underlying medical conditions, call your physician. A physician may prescribe an antiviral, which can lessen the symptoms and possibly shorten the duration of your illness. People who are sick should stay home from work or school.
*If you contract the flu and are at high-risk for flu complications, call your physician. People at high risk for complications include pregnant women, children under 2 and people with chronic medical conditions.
*Additional symptoms of H1N1 influenza are body aches and sometimes may include vomiting and diarrhea.
*Precautions to take to avoid getting the flu or avoid giving it to others:
-Wash hands frequently or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
-Avoid close contact with people who are coughing or otherwise appear ill.
-Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
-Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If you don't have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve, not your hands.
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