Updated March 12 at 10:30 a.m.: Health Sciences North has set up additional triage in the emergency department. This means the March 11 directive to call ahead if you are attending the hospital with COVID-19 symptoms no longer applies.
Original story
Anyone attending Health Sciences North because they are exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 are encouraged to call ahead, said the hospital in a news release.
In that case, the caller is asked to describe their symptoms and travel history, including countries they've visited.
HSN said the man who presented with symptoms on March 7 was flagged through the hospital's enhanced screening measures at the Emergency Department entrance, was given a mask to wear, taken to a negative pressure room where he was cared for and swabbed.
He was sent home, where he remains in self-isolation.
Symptoms of COVID-19 can range from mild to severe and include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing (shortness of breath).
“If you suspect you have symptoms of COVID-19, call Telehealth Ontario or Public Health Sudbury and Districts,” HSN said in a news release. “If you’re coming to the Emergency Department at HSN, please call ahead to 705-523-7100 and describe your symptoms and your travel history, including the countries you recently visited.”
If you need immediate medical attention, phone 911 and mention your travel history and symptoms, said HSN.
Patients entering the HSN Emergency Department are asked to follow the instructions in the signage posted outside hospital doors related to COVID-19.
"There is also active screening for patients at the entrance to the Emergency Department," HSN said. "You may be asked to wear a mask while waiting for or receiving treatment to prevent the spread of illness."
If you plan to visit a patient in the hospital and you are not feeling well, you are asked to stay home.
"At this time, the virus is not circulating locally. However, this is a rapidly changing situation requiring that our organization, community, and individuals be prepared for the potential wider spread of the infection in the community."
Critical information regarding HSN's operations for patients, visitors and staff will be communicated via its social media channels, as well as its website at hsnsudbury.ca as needed.
