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Hospital and critical care

Information for healthcare workers in hospital settings and those caring for patients hospitalized or experiencing severe COVID-19.
Last updated: May 6, 2024

This document provides guidance for acute health-care settings, including emergency departments and outpatient/ambulatory care within acute care facilities, on infection prevention and control (IPC) practices to mitigate the impact of COVID-19. 

Health-care workers must wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including masks or respirators, when additional precautions are required and in accordance with a point of care risk assessment.

People who are ill or have symptoms of illness are encouraged to visit when they are feeling better and free of symptoms. Check with the healthcare facility for guidance and for any exceptions such as end of life visits. People who are ill or have symptoms of illness should seek medical care as needed.

Visitors are encouraged to wear masks in health care settings as appropriate and to practice respiratory etiquette, including:
  • Clean your hands often using soap and warm water or use alcohol-based hand rub
  • Sneeze or cough into your elbow instead of your hands
  • Stay away from people at higher risk of serious illness
Continuous (universal) masking at health-care settings is not required. Proof of vaccination is not required for entry. 

Outbreak Management Protocol for Acute Care Settings - This document provides guidance to prepare for, detect and respond to outbreaks of COVID-19 in acute care settings - updated August 25, 2022

 

Clinical guidance 



SOURCE: Hospital and critical care ( )
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