OU Health Updates Visitation Policy To Address COVID-19 Hospitalizations

OU Health is updating its visitation policy at hospitals and clinics to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. 

The hospital system says the changes are in response to, "changing dynamics of the COVID-19 pandemic related to hospitalizations."

Part of the new policy allows only one essential caregiver to accompany patients at the University of Oklahoma Medical Center in Oklahoma City and OU Health Edmond Medical Center.

An essential caregiver is described as a person critical to helping the patient reach care imperatives. 

Those caregivers are also required to follow certain procedures upon arrival. 

Screenings will take place at each hospital or clinic entrance. Each person must sign an agreement laying out the expectations within the building. Additionally, masks are required at all times, but they must be approved. The approved masks are either surgical or non-ventilated cloth masks.

The policy extends to patients in the emergency room, those undergoing a same-day operation, or those visiting hospital-based clinics and departments. 

Those hospitalized at OU Health's Children's Hospital are allowed two visitors over the age of 18. 

The Women's and Newborn Labor and Delivery area, however, allows only one visitor. 

All visitors are required to remain in the patient's room unless going to the cafeteria. Each visitor also must request permission from the department director if they have to leave and return to the hospital for any reason. 

Additional health screening is required before entering again. 

For a full list of the updated policy, click here.