Most recent news & updates
Directive 5 and changes to the interim PPE recommendations based on increasing prevalence of Omicron variant
On December 15, 2021 Public Health Ontario released the Interim IPAC Recommendations for Use of Personal Protective Equipment for Care of Individuals with Suspect or Confirmed COVID-19.
Omicron Information and Resources
All information pertaining to Omicron will be compiled here and updated accordingly.
Point of Care Risk Assessment (PCRA)
GRH has prepared guidance to health care works for completing a point of care risk assessment.
Policy – Universal Masking Policy for Patients and Visitors
Developed by: Infection Prevention & Control / Occupational Health and Safety Approved by: Executive Vice President, Patient Care Services PurposeThe purpose of this policy is to provide clear guidance on the application of medical mask…
Care Partner/Visitor Guidelines and Virtual Visit Support
Updated November 2021 – Care Partner Guidelines
January 20, 2022 COVID Update
Inside this week’s Update: Break room reminders; PPE guidelines for staff, including extended use; PCR testing prioritization; COVID-19 booster shots for healthcare workers; current outbreaks at GRH; local and provincial updates and more.
GRH declares a new COVID-19 outbreak on 5A, part of it’s medicine program
FOR: All staff in clinical areas, All staff in non-clinical areas, Learners/Students, Other Providers, Physicians Sent on behalf of Bonnie Camm, Executive VP, Clinical Services Shelley Schmidt, Director, Infection Prevention and Control. In consultation with Region of Waterloo Public Health…
Effective Thursday, January 20: PCR Self-Swab Testing Discontinued
With restricted PCR testing eligibility, the COVID Assessment Centre is experiencing lower volumes with unfilled appointments daily. In order to maximize efficiency of the staff working at the Assessment Centre, PCR self-swab testing will end…
Omicron staff update FAQ – Friday, January 14, 2022
FAQ from the Omicron staff update held on January 14, 2022
January 21: Onsite third dose COVID-19 vaccine clinic at KW Campus
In order to ensure team members receive a third dose booster as soon as possible, there will be an onsite COVID-19 vaccine clinic at the KW Campus on January 21, 2022 from 7:30am-3:30pm in room…
GRH declares new COVID-19 outbreak on 8ABC, COVID outbreaks continue on 6N, 6S, 1F, CTU/5S, 5N
In consultation with Region of Waterloo Public Health, we have declared an outbreak of COVID-19 on 8ABC, part of the medicine program. Currently five patients have tested positive. However, testing is not yet complete; these…
GRH declares new COVID-19 outbreak on CTU/5S and 5N
We – in consultation with Region of Waterloo Public Health – have declared an outbreak of COVID-19 in CTU/5S and 5N, part of our stroke and medicine programs. Currently, four patients from CTU/5S have tested…
NEW Launch of online staff COVID reporting form
The OHS and IT teams have developed an online form for staff to report their COVID-19 information. After filling out the online form, staff members will receive direction regarding the most appropriate next steps, tailored…
Changes to PCR testing prioritization for COVID-19
The Ministry of Health (MOH) has updated its criteria regarding who is eligible to receive PCR testing.
Updated PPE guidance for care partners
Effective immediately, care partners will be permitted to wear their own mask (N95 or other), provided they wear a hospital issued mask on top.
Omicron Staff Update: January 14, 2022
On Friday, January 14, we hosted a special staff session to discuss the evolving situation with Omicron, the hospital’s response and what this changing information might mean for GRH team members.
January 13, 2022 COVID Update
Inside this week’s Update: Level 1 versus level 3 masks at staff entrances; PPE guidelines for staff, including extended use; learn more about Bill 284; PCR self-swab information; COVID-19 booster shots for healthcare workers; current…