Support Person/Caregiver Guidelines
Effective May 18, 2020

Our first priority at Huntsville Hospital Health System is always the health and safety of our patients, your
families and our staff. We understand that the current environment has created unexpected challenges for
you and for us. Thank you for your patience and cooperation as we seek to deliver safe, quality care to you
and your loved ones. In order to do so, there are guidelines for your support person/caregiver.
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All support persons/caregivers must be 16 years of age and older.
All support persons/caregivers will be screened for fever/temperature.
Anyone exhibiting symptoms of illness will not be allowed in our facility.
All support persons/caregivers must wear a mask or appropriate face covering,
must observe social distancing and must sanitize their hands frequently.

Password protection
Upon admission, the patient will provide a password so that communication can take place between the
hospital staff and family members. This password is used for identification during the hospitalization.
Supporting an adult patient
A point of contact (family member or caregiver age 16 and over) and a support plan are established upon
admission. The point of contact will be communicated with, at a minimum of once daily, if desired.
For non COVID-19 patients, one (1) support person is allowed.
Adult surgery patients who stay overnight may have one (1) person after the patient is in their room.
End-of-life care. One to 2 persons are allowed to support the patient during end-of-life care. If supporting a
COVID-19 patient, thorough education on risk and Personal Protective Equipment is required.
Supporting a pediatric patient
If you are supporting a patient in the Pediatrics Unit, Pediatric ICU, and Pediatric Emergency Department or
in the Neonatal ICU, please observe the following guidelines:
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All persons are screened at the front entrance of Huntsville Hospital for Women & Children.
For non Covid-19 pediatric patients, two (2) parents/caregivers are able to support the child with
only one (1) person at the bedside.
Pediatric patients having surgery may be escorted with their parents into Pre-op, return to their
vehicle for the procedure, and then called back to recovery when the surgery is completed.

Supporting a patient in Mother-Baby, Labor & Delivery, Antepartum & the OB Emergency Department
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All persons are screened at the front entrance of Huntsville Hospital for Women & Children.
For Non Covid-19 patients, one (1) support person is allowed per patient.