Article updated January 14, 2022 with important clarification for laboring and postpartum mothers
Intermountain is updating visitor guidelines in our facilities starting Tuesday, January 18, in response to increasing volumes resulting from the omicron variant. The changes will further protect our patients and caregivers, and help stop the spread of COVID-19.
Updated guidelines include:
- No overnight visitors with a few exceptions. Visiting hours are between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. This avoids visitors removing their mask while sleeping, which increases possible exposure for our caregivers. Exceptions to this overnight change include visitors of pediatric patients, laboring mothers, and patients who are suffering from dementia or are critically ill or at end of life. Please consult with your manager or hospital leadership if you experience situations you’re uncertain about.
- Laboring and postpartum patients in the Women and Newborn unit may have ONE designated visitor for the duration of the stay. The one designated visitor can stay the night. A mother’s certified doula is considered part of the medical team. This change is because of the increased exposure risks inherent to labor and delivery (close contact to a patient who is exerting extreme effort), and the vulnerability of a newborn infant. More information will be made available upon admission and guideline is subject to change.
- All visitors must be masked at all times, in all areas, in both hospitals and clinics.
- Patients (when feasible) and visitors (always) should have their masks on in the presence of a caregiver.
- One designated visitor per day is recommended in outpatient areas and same-day surgery to accompany an adult or pediatric patient. If additional visitors are requested because of safety or other needs (small children, etc.) please work with department leadership on exceptions.
- Two designated visitors in the Emergency Department can rotate in and out of the patient room.
- When visiting our clinics, patients are encouraged to come alone or to bring only those people necessary for their visit or personal safety (e.g., care of a dependent adult).Whenever possible, patients should make childcare arrangements.
Updates will be made to our website and signage the morning of January 18. View the full guidelines.