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SALT LAKE CITY — Starting on Friday, intermountain Healthcare eased its visitor restrictions amid the novel coronavirus pandemic.
The temporary visiting guidelines were implemented in March while the state was in its high-risk phase for COVID-19 spread and are easing now that most of the state has transitioned to low-risk.
Patients in hospitals and emergency rooms may now have two designated visitors.
For suspected or positive COVID-19 cases, visitors are only allowed for patients under the age of 18, end-of-life patents, “adult patients who need an adult to keep them safe,” and some pregnant patients.
For end-of-life patients without COVID-19, two eligible visitors (at least 8 years old and wearing a mask) are allowed at a time, with a maximum of four visitors allowed during a hospital stay.
Visitors will continue being screened for symptoms before entering the facility and must wear a face mask.
Hospital officials still recommend patients come alone unless they need assistance and urged that companions must wear a mask and show no COVID-19 symptoms.
Strict personal care, such as washing hands, and social distancing measures must also still take place during visits.
Visitation guidelines could tighten again if necessary.
