No visitors allowed at Silver Cross due to COVID-19 surge

Silver Cross Hospital implemented a “no-visitor” policy on Dec. 30 – although the hospital is making a few exceptions.

For now, visitors are not allowed in the following areas: inpatient nursing units, intensive care unit, emergency departments (applies to the main hospital campus in New Lenox and the freestanding emergency department in Homer Glen) and the urgent care centers in New Lenox and Mokena, according to a news release from Silver Cross Hospital.

The policy remains in effect until further notice, according to the Silver Cross website.

“Pediatric patients and patients with altered mental status or communication difficulties may have one designated parent, guardian or significant other accompany them in the waiting and treatment areas,” the release said.

One designated visitor may accompany a procedural care patient. That visitor will wait in the procedural care waiting lounge during the procedure. One designated visitor is also permitted during an outpatient test or procedure.

However, if the patient is admitted, visitation won’t be allowed during the patient’s hospital stay.

In addition, one designated visitor is allowed during the duration of a patient’s hospital stay in the labor and delivery, neonatal and pediatric units.

Nursing unit managers – or their designee – may make special exceptions based upon “patient presentation or other needs, such as end-of-life care,” according to the release.

Any permitted visitors must screen negative for COVID-19 and wear a facemask at all times.

For information, visit silvercross.org/patient-family/before/visiting-hours-policies.