Revised Visitor Policy: Two Primary Caregivers Allowed Per Admitted Patient
Effective: 5 a.m., Oct. 1, 2020
Throughout the COVID-19 health crisis, Cook Children’s has made every effort to keep you safe while following the latest guidelines provided to us from the Texas Health and Human Services Commission and other governing bodies.
The latest change begins at 5 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 1, 2020, when we will allow a maximum of two primary caregivers per admitted patient into the medical center. For clinic appointments and other outpatient visits, the one caregiver per patient policy is still in place, and siblings will not be able to attend appointments unless they have an appointment, as well.
When you visit any Cook Children's location, you can trust that your child's well-being is our top priority. To ease any concerns you may have about visiting, we have put multiple safeguards in place to create the safest environment possible for patients, families and staff.
Please read the following information for more details:
- Since April 13, only one caregiver has been allowed per patient, and we hope this change is welcomed news:
Beginning at 5 a.m. on Oct. 1, a maximum of two primary caregivers are allowed per admitted patient at Cook Children’s Medical Center.
- These two individuals will be able to accompany the patient to the hospital and stay with them in their room while they are an inpatient. Siblings and other visitors will not be allowed.
- All visitors to Cook Children’s are screened for COVID-19.
- Everyone over the age of 2 will be asked to wear a cloth or surgical mask at all times. Please bring a mask for you and your child, or one will be provided for you at the point of entry or at registration.
- For clinic appointments and other outpatient visits, the one caregiver per patient policy is still in place, and siblings will not be able to attend appointments unless they have an appointment, as well.
- SPECIAL SITUATIONS: For emergency room and urgent care visits, special exceptions will be made for families who have other children with them when they arrive. Special considerations are also made for situations involving end-of-life and other times when an additional visitor may be necessary.
- We follow all CDC guidance on how we respond to staff members, including physicians, who are exposed to COVID or those who may become ill. We have a very stringent protocol for how long we restrict these individuals from work, and an intensive process for when it is time for them to return.
We know this is a difficult situation, but we are continuing to do everything we can to keep everyone safe. Thank you for understanding.
