DOH Issues New Guidelines, Reopens Visitation for Nursing Homes
The Department of Health (DOH) sent out a letter on Nov. 12, to nursing homes statewide that reopened visitation, which had been severely restricted for almost two years.
Large gatherings are still prohibited, however children now can come visit: if they are accompanied by at least one adult, according to the DOH’s new guidelines.
All nursing home guests, who can now visit their loved ones at any time of the day must be COVID-negative to enter nursing home facilities, which are expected to screen visitors to determine their COVID statuses, according to a letter that was signed by Sheila McGarvey, the director division of nursing homes.
In addition, the visitors and staffers are required to practice hand hygiene through hand-washing and the use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
Face coverings that cover guests’ mouths and noses and physical distancing at least six feet in between people are still required, in accordance with the guidance of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.