Waypoint Centre for Mental Health Care is acting on possible concerns relating to transfers involving maximum-security patients.
Laurene Hilderley, a spokesperson for the Penetanguishene facility that includes a maximum-security psychiatric unit, said a number of protocols have been initiated to ensure the health and safety of both patients and staff from Waypoint and related agencies.
“With most courts not physically operating we have shifted to using virtual technology where possible,” she said. “Some patients have been discharged back to court.
“In the event of a future transfer, we would follow screening processes in place and adhere to the directives of the Chief Medical Officer of Health in Ontario for the use of personal-protective equipment during COVID-19, which includes managing supplies in consideration of the global shortage of personal-protective equipment.”
And because the pandemic is changing rapidly, directions and guidance are constantly evolving, according to Hilderley.
“Waypoint is following the direction of the Ministry of Health as well as public health officials and has put extensive measures in place related to admission and transfer of patients, as well as the general safety of patients, staff and the community. We continue to update them as required.”
According to Hilderley, Waypoint has developed a process for any new admissions related to both patient and staff safety while working worth its partners to understand and support their safety requirements.
Additional safety measures in response to the pandemic including visitor restrictions and a series of additional screening requirements.
“Patients are staying on their units and we have implemented social distancing as well as working with patients to undertake universal precautions such as handwashing,” she said.
“We have made changes to allow for bed spacing where possible. Screening of everyone who enters any of our buildings is mandatory and has been updated and enhanced.”
As well, any new admissions are being isolated until results of a COVID-19 test are received.
“We are preparing to open a special unit where patients with symptoms, who are awaiting test results or have been confirmed positive, will be isolated and assigned staff will work solely for this unit,” Hilderley said, noting the hospital is following the long-term-care sector recommendations outlined in its horizon program for geriatric psychiatry.
“We are following the government’s direction for self-monitoring, self-isolation and isolation for our staff who may have symptoms or have travelled outside of the country.”
Universal precautions and handwashing have also been expanded to include social/physical distancing and Waypoint’s cafeteria is providing take-out services only and the hospital no longer allows deliveries beyond essential supplies.
“Staff are repeatedly urged to follow the government’s advice on staying home, only making essential trips and limiting interaction with others,” Hilderley said. “Staff are also working from home where appropriate minimizing entry into the hospital.”
