Vidant North Hospital as of today has implemented new visiting regulations due to the novel coronavirus pandemic as an increased community spread is anticipated across the country and in Eastern North Carolina throughout the holiday season.

“As Vidant Health continues to respond to the evolving COVID-19 pandemic across North Carolina, we are taking steps to ensure the safety of all,” the hospital said in a statement today. “Vidant remains vigilant with its screening process for all visitors, entry requirements and visitor restrictions by department.” 

The hospital said: “This is an evolving situation and Vidant continues to monitor the spread and examine local data, including COVID-19 cases in our region and in hospitals, and will adjust visitation restrictions accordingly. Vidant still recommends and supports virtual connectivity to help loved ones safely interact with patients, especially in facilities where patients are at an increased risk for complications such as long-term nursing facilities.”

The restrictions are highlighted in this graphic:

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The exceptions are highlighted in this graphic:

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Visitor screening process

If the answer is yes to any of these symptoms visitation is prohibited:

Fever or chills 

Cough 

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing 

Fatigue 

Muscle or body aches 

Headache 

New loss of taste of smell 

Sore throat 

Congestion or runny nose 

Nausea or vomiting 

Diarrhea 

Entry requirements: 

Temperature check — Temperature must be under 100 degrees fahrenheit

Masking — Wear a mask at all times in the building. Screeners will provide a hospital mask if you do not have one. Cloth masks are permitted. 

Hand washing — Visitors will need to gel or use hand sanitizer on entry. 

Social distancing — Avoid close contact with others. 

Limit personal belongings during your visit. 

Limit your visit to the patient room, and kindly do not go elsewhere in the hospital except for the Café.

One healthy adult visitor per day — visitors may not switch out. They are required to be masked at all times.

Holiday tips

Vidant encourages the community to celebrate the holidays safely in light of the pandemic. “Before you plan a traditional holiday gathering, consider setting up a virtual celebration with apps like Zoom or Google Meet instead to ensure the safety of those you love. If you do plan to attend an in-person gathering, consider setting it up outside.”

Additionally, be sure to keep these holiday safety tips in mind — limit the number of people at gatherings, avoid out of town travel and practice the Three Ws — wear a mask, wash hands often and wait 6-feet apart from others. 

For more information on Vidant’s visitor restrictions visit this link