Joseph Brant Hospital (JBH) is committed to providing a safe environment for patients, families, visitors and staff.
To help prevent the spread of infections we ask that you refer to the Guidelines and Tips for Patients and Visitors below.
Guidelines to Prevent the Spread of Infection
- Clean your hands:
- upon arrival at the hospital,
- before visiting a patient; and,
- after visiting a patient.
- Do not visit the hospital if:
- you are feeling unwell; or,
- you have unexplained gastrointestinal problems (upset stomach, vomiting or diarrhea).
- Limit visitors to two per patient.
Infection Prevention Tips for Patients and Visitors
Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs), are germs that patients get while receiving medical care. These tips can help prevent getting and spreading them.
- Infection Prevention Tips for Patients and Visitors
Clean Your Hands
Wash your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer when:
- entering or exiting a patient room
- before and after eating
- after using the washroom
Keep Patient Rooms Clean
Allow housekeeping space to clean and disinfect patient rooms and washrooms.
- Limit personal belongings.
- Do not clutter.
- Dispose of waste.
- Leave the room during cleaning.
Take Precaution with Food and Drink
Packaging and contents can spread infection.
Use the Appropriate Washroom
In-room washrooms are for patient use only. Visitors please use public washrooms.
Watch for Precaution Signs
Follow posted instructions. Put on personal protective equipment (PPE) when directed and use a Personal Belonging Bag to store personal items.
Ask Questions
Check-in at the Nursing Station, or ask an available member of our team for help understanding tips and signage.
Tools & Resources
Local
Provincial
National
International
Balloons
Latex balloons are not permitted in the hospital. Latex can cause severe allergic reactions in some people. Mylar balloons are acceptable.
Flowers & Plants
Highly fragrant flowers, like lilies and hyacinths are prohibited. Lilies can cause severe allergic reactions in some people. Small floral arrangements are best.
The ICU does not accept any cut flowers and plants.
Fragrances
Strong fragrances can cause irritation in some people. Please do not wear strong fragrances in the hospital.
Scent-Free Areas
In certain circumstances, we may designate an area scent-free. This means all fragrances are prohibited. People wearing fragarances, may be asked to leave.
Peanuts
Peanuts can cause severe allergic reactions in some people. If possible, refrain from bringing peanut products into the hospital. Please note, JBH is not a peanut-free hospital.
Peanut-Free Areas
The Maternal Child Unit (MACU) is designated as a peanut-free zone.
Clean Hands
Cleaning your hands is the single most effective way to prevent the spread of infection.
Cleaning your hands with soap and water is still best if your hands are visibly soiled. When using soap and water, rub with lots of friction for 15 seconds, dry well and use a paper towel to turn off taps.
Alcohol based hand rub dispensers have been placed:
- inside the door of patient rooms,
- at the entrance to patient care units; and,
- at hospital entrances/exits.
An alcohol based hand rub is an effective alternative to cleaning your hands with soap and water.
It's Okay to Ask
Healthcare providers know to clean their hands before and after a patient interaction. But, sometimes they forget. We encourage patients and families to remind healthcare providers to clean their hands often.
Public Reporting
All Ontario hospitals provide public reports on hand hygiene compliance rates.
- Hand Hygiene Compliance Reports for Joseph Brant Hospital
- Cleaning hands before initial contact with the patient/patient's environment for all health care providers and;
- Cleaning hands after contact with the patient/patient's environment for all health care providers