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Inside this week’s Update: Passive screening for all team members; updated care partner visiting guidelines; masking continues to be required at GRH; the COVID reporting form; local and provincial updates, news and more.

Inside this week’s Update: Masking continues to be required at GRH; the COVID reporting form; care partner visiting guideline reminders; local and provincial updates, news and more.

Inside this week’s Update: Masking required at GRH beyond June 11; the COVID reporting form; updated care partner visiting guidelines; the new Occupational Health location; a note about entering and exiting through the Cancer Centre…

Inside this week’s Update: The COVID reporting form; updated care partner visiting guidelines; the new Occupational Health location; a note about entering and exiting through the Cancer Centre doors; COVID-19 booster shots for healthcare workers;…

For assessment and potential removal of outpatient COVID-19 banner bar alerts, we have created an extension and email address.

Ron Gagnon, President and CEO at Grand River Hospital, presented a virtual town hall update on May 26, 2022.

Inside this week’s Update: The COVID reporting form; outdoor care partner visiting guidelines; COVID-19 booster shots for healthcare workers; local and provincial updates, news and more.

This year, the Pride committee worked to enhance the ways we #ShowourPride by updating the materials we use everyday in Webex meetings. Please click below to download your high-quality Webex background of choice.

We and the Region of Waterloo Public Health, are declaring the COVID-19 outbreak on 8ABC over.

Inside this week’s Update: The COVID reporting form; outdoor care partner visiting guidelines; COVID-19 booster shots for healthcare workers; local and provincial updates, news and more.

Inside this week’s Update: The COVID reporting form; provincial masking requirements maintained in select higher-risk indoor settings, including hospitals; COVID-19 restrictions to remain in place; the GRH COVID testing centre; care partner guideline reminders; COVID-19…

Inside this week’s Update: The COVID reporting form; provincial masking requirements maintained in select higher-risk indoor settings, including hospitals; COVID-19 restrictions to remain in place; the GRH COVID testing centre; care partner guideline reminders; COVID-19…

Inside this week’s Update: The COVID reporting form; provincial masking requirements maintained in select higher-risk indoor settings, including hospitals; COVID-19 restrictions to remain in place; the GRH COVID testing centre; care partner guideline reminders; COVID-19…

We – in consultation with Region of Waterloo Public Health, have declared an outbreak of COVID-19 on 8ABC, part of the medicine program.

We and the Region of Waterloo Public Health, are declaring the COVID-19 outbreak on 5S/CTU, part of the medicine program over.

Inside this week’s Update: The COVID reporting form; COVID-19 restrictions to remain in place; the new location for the GRH COVID testing centre; updated care partner guideline reminders; COVID-19 booster shots for healthcare workers; local…

Inside this week’s Update: Active outbreak summary; long weekend reminders to remain vigilant; COVID-19 restrictions to remain in place; the new location for the GRH COVID testing centre; the COVID reporting form; updated care partner…

Inside this week’s Update: Active outbreak summary; COVID-19 restrictions to remain in place; the new location for the GRH COVID testing centre; the COVID reporting form; updated care partner guideline reminders; COVID-19 booster shots for…

Inside this week’s Update: Active outbreak summary; COVID-19 restrictions to remain in place; the new location for the GRH COVID testing centre; the COVID reporting form; updated care partner guideline reminders; COVID-19 booster shots for…

We – in consultation with Region of Waterloo Public Health, have declared an outbreak of COVID-19 on 5S/CTU, part of our medicine program.

Inside this week’s Update: COVID-19 restrictions to remain in place; the new location for the GRH COVID testing centre; the COVID reporting form; updated care partner guideline reminders; COVID-19 booster shots for healthcare workers; local…

Inside this week’s Update: COVID-19 restrictions to remain in place; the COVID reporting form; updated care partner guideline reminders; COVID-19 booster shots for healthcare workers; local and provincial updates, news and more.

We and the Region of Waterloo Public Health have declared the COVID-19 outbreak on 5N, part of the medicine program, over.

Inside this week’s Update: COVID-19 restrictions to remain in place; The COVID reporting form; updated outbreak summary; updated care partner guidelines; COVID-19 booster shots for healthcare workers; local and provincial updates, news and more.

Inside this week’s Update: The COVID reporting form; updated outbreak summary; updated care partner guidelines; COVID-19 booster shots for healthcare workers; local and provincial updates, news and more.

We – in consultation with Region of Waterloo Public Health – have declared an outbreak of COVID-19 on PT2, part of the transitional care unit at Freeport Campus.

Inside this week’s Update: The COVID reporting form; updated outbreak summary; COVID-19 booster shots for healthcare workers; local and provincial updates and more.

We and the Region of Waterloo Public Health have declared the COVID-19 outbreak on 5N, part of the medicine program, over.

We are pleased to declare the COVID-19 outbreaks on PT3 and UT4 West at Freeport Campus, over. This is a direct result of the hard work staff in caring for patients, and taking the steps…

Inside this week’s Update: The COVID reporting form; outbreak updates; news from the Pinebush vaccine clinic; COVID-19 booster shots for healthcare workers; local and provincial updates and more.

On Friday, April 1, Grand River Hospital will be passing oversight of the Pinebush Vaccine Clinic to Region of Waterloo Public Health.

We – in consultation with Region of Waterloo Public Health – have declared an outbreak of COVID-19 on PT2, part of the transitional care unit at Freeport Campus.

We and the Region of Waterloo Public Health, have declared the COVID-19 outbreak on 6N/S, inpatient surgery, over.

Inside this week’s Update: The COVID reporting form; levelling up masks; paid sick time and Bill 284; COVID-19 booster shots for healthcare workers; local and provincial updates and more.

We and the Region of Waterloo Public Health, have declared the COVID-19 outbreak in 5A, part of our medicine program, over.

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, Patient Care Services and Shelley Schmidt, Director, Infection Prevention and Control. Currently, three patients from PT3 and…

We and the Region of Waterloo Public Health, have declared the COVID-19 outbreak on GR2 East (which includes GR2 South), part of the specialized mental health program at the Freeport Campus, over.

Find more information about ASTM level 1 and level 3 masks.

We and the Region of Waterloo Public Health, have declared the COVID-19 outbreak on 5C over.

Inside this week’s Update: PCR testing recommendations; outbreak updates; return to work plans; additional break spaces on KW campus; an update on services resumption; COVID-19 booster shots for healthcare workers; local and provincial updates and…

We and the Region of Waterloo Public Health, have declared the COVID-19 outbreak on CTU/5S over.

In an effort to support home units experiencing extreme shortages of staff, we may soon begin asking team members who have either tested positive or been exposed (either in the community or household) to return…

We and the Region of Waterloo Public Health, have declared the COVID-19 outbreak on 1F, adult inpatient mental health, over.

The Occupational Health, Safety and Wellness team (OHSW) and the Infection Prevention and Control team (IPAC) have determined break rooms to be the biggest opportunity for the spread of COVID-19 between staff.

Our clinical leaders are developing a thoughtful and well managed plan for resuming services that have been paused since January 4 due to Directive #2.

Inside this week’s Update: PCR testing recommendations; outbreak updates; COVID-19 booster shots for healthcare workers; local and provincial updates and more.

FOR: All staff in clinical areas, All staff in non-clinical areas, Learners/Students, Other Providers, Physicians Sent on behalf of Jane Martin VP, Clinical and Diagnostics and Shelley Schmidt, Director, Infection Prevention and Control. UPDATE: The outbreak on 5C at KW…

Due to the large number of outbreaks and positive cases of COVID-19 among team members, Occupational Health, Safety and Wellness and the Infection Prevention and Control teams are requesting team members who are experiencing just…

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.

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. UPDATE: This outbreak was declared over on February…

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…

FAQ from the Omicron staff update held on January 14, 2022

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…

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…

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…

The Ministry of Health (MOH) has updated its criteria regarding who is eligible to receive PCR testing.

Effective immediately, care partners will be permitted to wear their own mask (N95 or other), provided they wear a hospital issued mask on top.

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.

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…

New PPE guidance for staff – updated January 12, 2022

Inside this week’s Update: The Omicron variant; updated care partner and PCR self-swab guidelines; COVID-19 booster shots for healthcare workers; current outbreaks at GRH; local and provincial updates and more.

Sent on behalf of Bonnie Camm, Executive VP, Patient Care Services and Shelley Schmidt, Director, Infection Prevention and Control Marc Simard, Director, Employee Health and Wellness. **Updated on January 5, 2022 to include ambulatory care**…

consultation with Region of Waterloo Public Health – have declared an outbreak of COVID-19 on 1F (adult inpatient mental health). COVID outbreaks on 6N, 6S and 8B continue.

Grand River Hospital, in consultation with Region of Waterloo Public Health, has declared the COVID-19 outbreak on 8B, part of its medicine program, over.

Inside this week’s Update: The Omicron variant; updated care partner guidelines; COVID-19 booster shots for healthcare workers; the opportunity for GRH staff to work at local vaccination clinics; current outbreaks at GRH; local and provincial…

We are declaring an outbreak of COVID in our 6N and 6S units, inpatient surgery program. Currently, one patient and two staff from 6S have tested positive, while two patients and two staff from 6N…

We are declaring an outbreak of COVID in UT2North (General Rehab). 2 patients have tested positive. Please continue to use the appropriate PPE, practice physical distancing when appropriate (i.e. during breaks when PPE is removed)…

Inside this week’s Update: The Omicron variant; updated care partner guidelines; COVID-19 booster shots for healthcare workers; the opportunity for GRH staff to work at local vaccination clinics; local and provincial updates and more.

As a result of our changing environment and the increased risks that the COVID-19 Omicron variant poses locally, we will further reduce the risk of exposure in hospital to protect all patients in our care…

Sent on behalf of Dr. Todd Walters, Occupational Health I know that for most of us, the best part of the holidays is seeing our family and friends. However, Omicron is now spreading at unprecedented…

The Region of Waterloo is ramping up vaccine efforts to administer 15,000 – 20,000 vaccines a day in the region. We have been asked to support with staffing at these vaccine clinics to ensure the…

We recently held a special virtual session for GRH team members to discuss Omicron, hospital planning and what this changing information might mean for staff.

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.

Read the FAQs from the Omicron Q&A session for staff.

Quick details New guidance has been released regarding non-essential international travel. If you must travel for essential reasons you will be required to plan for quarantine as part of your vacation. If staff wish to…

Inside this week’s Update: The Omicron variant; COVID-19 booster shots for healthcare workers; COVID testing for GRH staff; the expanding booster shot eligibility; local and provincial updates and more.

We are aware that the situation with respect to Omicron is changing quickly and are paying close attention to what this might mean for GRH. In any decisions we make, we will be prioritizing the…

Inside this week’s Update: The outbreak in 5N; Omicron variant and the Canadian travel ban; a reminder that GRH is discouraging social gatherings of team members; COVID-19 booster shots for healthcare workers; vaccinations for children…

Update as of Dec 10: Grand River Hospital, in consultation with Region of Waterloo Public Health, has declared the COVID-19 outbreak in 5N (Stroke Unit) over.

GRH leadership is discouraging all social gatherings of GRH team members. All departmentally planned social gatherings are to be cancelled (both on- or off-site).

Inside this week’s Update: The Omicron variant and the Canadian travel ban; COVID-19 booster shots for healthcare workers; vaccinations for children aged 5-11; reminders about care partner vaccination guidance and virtual visit support; flu shot…

Last week, WHO designated the variant B.1.1.529, known as Omicron, a Covid-19 variant of concern. There is still much unknown about this variant but researchers around the world are collaborating to better understand Omicron, sharing their…

Inside this week’s Update: Vaccinations for children aged 5-11; reminders about care partner vaccination guidance and virtual visit support; reminders for e-screening; flu shot reminders; local and provincial updates and more.

Inside this week’s Update: Reminders about care partner vaccination guidance and virtual visit support; reminders for COVID-19 rapid testing and e-screening; flu shot reminders; local and provincial updates and more.

Inside this week’s Update: Reminders about care partner vaccination guidance and the FAQ; reminders for COVID-19 rapid testing; flu shot reminders; local and provincial updates and more.

vaccinated against COVID-19. Patients and Care Partners can discuss an exemption to this guideline with the manager of your care area.

Inside this week’s Update: Reminders about care partner vaccination guidance and an updated FAQ; information on the mandatory vaccination policy; reminders for COVID-19 rapid testing; flu shot reminders; local and provincial updates and more.

Sent on behalf of Marc Simard, Director Employee Health and Wellness. Quick details: -Waterloo Region vaccination clinics will start providing thirds doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to priority populations-Health care workers that had their second…

Inside this week’s Update: Reminders about care partner vaccination guidance; information on the mandatory vaccination policy; reminders for COVID-19 rapid testing; information about Take Our Kids to Work Day; local and provincial updates and more.

With recent changes to the provincial COVID-19 testing guidelines, guidelines for asymptomatic screening for COVID-19 have been updated. This update no longer recommends asymptomatic screening requirements for fully vaccinated individuals in specific categories.

Inside this week’s Update: New care partner vaccination guidance; information on the mandatory vaccination policy; reminders for COVID-19 rapid testing; local and provincial updates and more.

Bonnie Camm, Executive Vice President of Clinical Services Quick details: Starting November 9 care partners will be required to provide proof of full COVID-19 vaccination to visit or accompany a patient for an approved visit…

Grand River Hospital requires care partners to provide proof of full COVID-19 vaccination, along with government issued ID, or to have an approved exemption to this guideline to be able to visit or accompany a…

Inside this week’s Update: Information on the mandatory vaccination policy; reminders for COVID-19 rapid testing; care partner reminders; the recording and FAQ from the virtual Vaccine Education Panel; local updates and more.

On Thursday, October 7, GRH hosted a COVID-19 vaccination discussion where a physician panel provided information on vaccine efficacy and answered staff questions.  Panelists included: -Dr. William Ciccotelli, Medical Director, Infection Prevention and Control, Grand…

GRH is permitting team members with proof of one (1) dose of the COVID-19 vaccination on file with Occupational Health and Safety as of October 12th to continue working where they comply with all requirements.

Inside this week’s Update: Information on the mandatory vaccination policy; reminders for COVID-19 rapid testing; care partner reminders; the 2020-2021 Annual Report; Ron’s Virtual Update; the Vaccine Education Panel and more.

Inside this week’s Update: Information on the mandatory vaccination policy; reminders for COVID-19 rapid testing; care partner reminders; local and provincial updates and more.

Inside this week’s Update: Information on the mandatory vaccination policy; reminders for COVID-19 rapid testing; an update on the provincial vaccine passport; local and provincial updates and more.

Inside this week’s Update: Care partner updates; screening reminders; information on the mandatory vaccination policy; reminders for COVID-19 rapid testing; local and provincial updates and more.

Inside this week’s Update: Information on the mandatory vaccination policy; reminders for submitting proof of vaccination; reminders for COVID-19 rapid testing; local and provincial updates and more.

Employees, staff, contractors and students who are unvaccinated or who have not disclosed their COVID vaccination status must self-test at home twice per week beginning Friday September 10th, 2021.

Inside this week’s Update: Information on the mandatory vaccination policy; an update on the Pinebush vaccination clinic ramp down; notes about care partners and screeners; local and provincial updates and more.

GRH will be aligning with partner hospitals to ensure a safe environment for our team members and for our patients and community through the attached policy that outlines how the hospitals will manage the requirements…

Inside this week’s Update: how to be entered for early-bird prizes for submitting proof of vaccination per the mandatory vaccination policy; reminders about care partners and e-screening; local and provincial updates and more.

Health care workers (this includes all staff, physicians, and volunteers) must provide proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 by Sept 7. Health care workers who do not submit this proof will be considered unvaccinated. Instructions on…

August 17: Changes for care partners at KW campus August 24: Changes for care partners at Freeport campus

Inside this week’s Update: the mandatory vaccination policy; an update on care partners at KW Campus; PPE news; updates from the Pinebush Vaccination Clinic; local and provincial updates and more.

August 18: We are developing our COVID-19 vaccination policy as mandated by the Government of Ontario. If you have received your vaccine, please send your vaccine receipt to Occupational Health and Safety.

Inside this week’s Update: quarantine exemptions for international travel; more information regarding the resumption of e-screening; local and provincial updates and more.

Updated August 10 to note prox only doors

Inside this week’s Update: care partner updates; a notice regarding e-screening; a reminder about a change in gloves and general PPE requirements; local and provincial updates and more.

In most areas of the hospital, patients can now identify up to FIVE care partners who can visit one at a time, by appointment only. Please note that restrictions still apply.

Updated July 30: Mask usage and supply numbers at GRH

Inside this week’s Update: a change in gloves; reminders about PPE amid recent outbreaks; care partners in Childbirth; an update on volunteer services; local and provincial updates and more.

COVID Self Screening Attestation

GRH, with the Region of Waterloo Public Health has declared an outbreak of COVID-19 on 6 South (6S) part of our surgery program. Two patients have been identified with a potential third. No staff have…

Inside this week’s Update: care partners in Childbirth and questions about care partner restrictions; an update on volunteer services; local and provincial updates and more.

Inside this week’s Update: reminders about care partners using the KW Campus cafeteria and care partner restrictions; the importance of PPE and physical distancing; local and provincial updates and more.

GRH, in consultation with Region of Waterloo Public Health, has declared the COVID-19 outbreak in nutrition and food services over.

Inside this week’s Update: reminders about the importance of PPE and physical distancing; expanded mental health benefits; local and provincial updates and more.

UPDATE July 8: GRH is now extending the temporary enhanced mental health benefits to all part-time & casual team members and their dependents.

Feel free to use one of these GRH branded Zoom backgrounds for your next meeting. Right click to save image to your computer. Care Never Stops GRH General GRH Pride GRH Accreditation 2021 GRH Strategic…

July 5: Seeking individuals for staffing support at Regional vaccine clinic July 10 & 11

Inside this week’s Update: reminders about care partner visits; 10 general medicine beds on 6C to accommodate a rise in COVID+ patients; information for those who intend to travel internationally this summer; local and provincial…

Inside this week’s Update: changes to designated care partner visits; we have opened 10 general medicine beds on 6C to accommodate a rise in COVID+ patients; information for those who intend to travel internationally this…

Staff planning to travel internationally this summer are required to follow all Government of Canada guidelines for returning to Canada. Click here for more information.

June 24: Opening 6C for general medicine to support patient flow

Inside this edition: Watch the replay of the June 16 Virtual Update; free Calm app subscription for staff and physicians; screen entrance reminders; and more!

June 15: new Calm App available to GRH staff and physicians!

Staff suggestions shared in the chat during this presentation: Keeping cool in the summer heat: Enjoying a pool and lake! With a nice drink in hand. Lots of popsicles! Watermelon! Golf course on a windy…

June 14: Mobile pop-up clinics are again being offered for accelerated second doses to all staff, physicians and volunteers at the KW and Freeport campuses over the next two weeks. These appointments are for those…

In today’s update, a reminder about Homewood webinars, patient discharges, and the upcoming staff update next Wednesday!

Keep up with #TeamVaccine in their weekly newsletter, published every Tuesday: http://theshotweekly.ca/

June 8: Homewood webinars; screener support for patient discharges; provincial and local updates.

June 3: Homewood webinars available; PPE in office or meeting spaces; screener support for patient discharges; the local and provincial update.

Updated June 3: New Homewood Webinars

June 1: Upcoming Homewood webinar; Vaccine clinic celebrates the 100,000 shot; provincial and local updates

May 27: Reminders about the “Film your hospital” group; changes to Freeport Campus doors and courtyard; reminders about staff vaccine doses and paid COVID leave; today’s provincial and local numbers.

May 25: Information and some FAQs about the second vaccine doses for health care workers; ICYMI regarding paid COVID leave, extended mental health benefits, Freeport courtyard now open; provincial and local numbers and updates.

From: Bonnie Camm, Executive VP Clinical Services, and Vickie Murray, Integrated Director of Pharmacy Quick details We have approval from MOH and enough vaccine supply to proceed with providing the highest priority eligible Health Care…

May 20: Isolation recommendations for fully vaccinated individuals who have been exposed to COVID; update on the resumption of surgical services, Freeport Courtyard now open; and more!

The Freeport courtyard is now open for use by staff, patients and care partners; COVID protocols must be maintained at all times. Staff are asked not to use the tables under the canopy between 1300-1630….

May 18: ICYMI about paid sick leave for eligible employees; extended mental health benefits available; reminder about mask-wearing while waiting for screening; provincial and local news and numbers

As of May 6, fully Vaccinated Individuals who are exposed to COVID-19 cases may not be required to self-isolate under certain circumstances. Click here for more information.

In response to the ongoing third wave of COVID-19, the Ontario government has enacted legislation that amends the Employment Standards Act, 2000 to provide eligible employees with up to three (3) days of paid leave…

In follow-up to the memo shared on April 22, 2021 regarding additional mental health supports for GRH team members, the following provides a bit more information regarding the changes to the Manulife benefits program for…

May 13: Be on the lookout for “Film Your Hospital” group members; GRH in the news; reminder of screening questions; how to order eye protection information; and local and provincial updates.

May 11: an update about second dose appointments for higher-risk health care worker groups; safe voluntary isolation site information; eye protection information; and local and provincial updates.

May 6: glove update; sharing GRH photos and stories; ICYMI reminders about self-screening and using the Pioneer Terrace entrance at Freeport; a thank-you message to those who completed the redeployment survey; a mask and meeting…

May 4: Self-screening reminder; ICYMI information about sharing patient stories; eye protection update; and local and provincial updates.

Updated May 3: This document outlines requirements and provides guidance for masking for GRH patients, families, care partners and visitors, GRH workers in clinical and non-clinical areas.

April 29: Self-screening refresher; Pioneer Terrace entrance at Freeport Campus now open; new swabs for children under 12 at the drive-thru; local and provincial updates.

April 27: today’s update: a few reminders about food/drink and vendors; an FAQ; a local and provincial update; and more.

Updated April 26: Answering questions about the COVID-19 vaccine. We will continue to update this document as more information becomes available – check back often.

April 22: today’s update: a link to yesterday’s virtual update; information about non-urgent surgeries; notice about the Pioneer Terrace at Freeport; and more.

Watch the replay of the April 21 Virtual Update and read the Q&A about our wave 3 response.

April 20: today’s update: information about tomorrow’s COVID Virtual Update; sharing patient stories; COVID Care Learning Tool; information about the Region coordinating emergency child care; and more.

April 19, 2021: Learning modules to support clinical staff and physicians that have been redeployed to provide care to COVID-19, and other critically ill patients.

April 15: today’s update includes the updated Point of Risk Assessments; information about patient flow; changes to care partners; updates about goggles and N95 masks; and more.

April 8: today’s update includes information about critical care beds; the updated Point of Risk Assessments; information about patient flow; the changes to care partners; and more.

Updated April 6, 2021 with new PCRA guidance; PPE requirements for COVID-19 positive/suspected patients

April 10: The Province has issued three new directives/guidance to Ontario hospitals to support the regional response to COVID-19. You may have seen these in the media. While we are still working through the details…

Updated April 9 – new Protected Code Blue poster for Freeport

To honour all health care workers that have lost their lives to COVID-19, hospitals in the Waterloo and Wellington regions will lower their flags to half-mast on Friday, April 9. Please take a moment to…

April 8: today’s update includes information about the flag lowering to acknowledge a year since the first health care worker COVID-19 death tomorrow; information about the graphene mask recall; and more.

April 6: today’s update includes a new perk offer; reminders to be kind to our screeners and be prepared to show your green sticker at the staff entrance; another Employee and Family Assistance webinar

April 1: today’s update includes a new perk offer; an outbreak investigation; COVID VOC and changes to IPAC practices; entrance update for the long weekend; and more.

Click here for information regarding COVID-19 Variants of Concern (VOC) and changes to IPAC management and practices.

March 30: today’s update includes a reminder about N95 refit – 9210 mask style; a lab update; a local and provincial update; and a shout out to our volunteers at the vaccine clinic.

March 29: If you have been fitted to an 9210 style N95, please read this to see if you need to be refitted to a new respirator style.

March 25: today’s update includes a reminder to complete your self-screening attestation; a recap of the local fire, police and EMS parade at KW and Freeport; a lab update; and more.

March 23: today’s update includes reminders about the vaccine clinic move; break space reminder; reminder to complete your self-screening attestation; information about PPE; and more.

March 18: today’s update includes a reminder about the vaccine clinic move; break space reminder; reminder to complete your self-screening attestation; information about second dose appointments; and more.

March 18: Guidance for eye protection, for staff asking if they can bring their own eye protection gear to work.

GRH President and CEO, Ron Gagnon provides an update to all GRH team members on COVID and other organizational updates. Watch the replay or download the presentation.

March 16: today’s update includes a reminder about tomorrow’s town hall; information about the morgue process; ICYMI information about glove usages; updates about the COVID-19 vaccine; a local and provincial update for COVID-19 news and…

March 12: All on-site GRH staff are now eligible to receive their first COVID-19 vaccination dose.

March 11: today’s update includes recognizing the National Day of Observance; our change in screensavers; a local and provincial update for COVID-19 case numbers; and the information about the next town hall on March 17th

March 11: Honouring the National Day of Observance to commemorate the people who lost their lives and the significant impacts we have all felt because of COVID-19.

March 9: New break space options; a reminder to be kind to screeners; a glove usage update; a lab update; a link to the next town hall; thank you messages from SJAM staff and students;…

You may have noticed we changed our screensavers with photos and messages. We want to thank you, our GRH team members, for your commitment and dedication to fighting COVID-19 and caring for our community. As…

March 4: New EFAP webinar; update on self-screen attestations; end-of-life process reminder; a “here comes the sun” patient discharge story, and more.

In today’s Update: information about break rooms; downloading the Here Comes the Sun poster; the new mobile assessment centre for staff/physicians in connection to an outbreak; a change in wipes; ICYMI news stories; and more.

Add some sunshine to your unit! Download, print, and post your own ‘Here Comes the Sun’ poster and let patients and staff know what it means when they hear this song played overhead…

March 1: Signage to indicate no food or drink allowed

Feb 25: new on-site testing option for team members who need to be swabbed due to an outbreak/outbreak investigation.

GRH President and CEO, Ron Gagnon provides an update on the current state of COVID in our province, region, and hospital; latest information on our vaccine roll-out; and organizational updates about current operational results, our…

Feb 23: Effective tomorrow, care partners will be allowed to use the cafeteria during specific hours.

February 23

Feb 11: Video from the Ontario Hospital Association about vaccine dose intervals.

Effective today, February 4, 2021, when placing a COVID-19 order in Powerchart, a new field is now available for the entry of an Outbreak / Investigation Number when provided. Click here for more information

Updated February 2: Testing for COVID variants of concern.

January 29: plan for admitting COVID+ patients to the medicine program.

April 22: COVID-19 status (exposed, suspect, or confirmed) added to Cerner banner bar.

Jan 21: COVID-19 vaccine side effects

GRH President and CEO, Ron Gagnon provides an update on the current state of COVID in our province, region, and hospital; our roll in the province’s vaccine implementation plan; and more. Click the video below…

January 7: preparing to open medicine beds on 6ABC, dependent on medicine program capacity needs. Please note we are not making this change until needs call for it.

Updated January 4: Signs and symptoms of COVID-19 for clinician reference.

As our region is in lockdown/grey COVID-19 status as of December 26th, as per the Government of Ontario, we have developed a formal document to support the existing “exceptional circumstance only” process for admitted patients…

To ensure standardized infection control interventions for COVID-19 exposed inpatients, we will be changing the Additional Precautions or Isolation signage required on the pulled curtain of the bedspace or the door to the private room.

December 16: Employee and Family Assistance Program update

June 5: Our current supply of disinfectant wipes has been impacted by COVID 19 and supply changes. Caviwipes are in limited supply and will be replaced by Clorox Bleach disinfectant wipes. Should our supply of…

Updated Dec 14: Guidance document on who should be tested for COVID-19.

Due to increasing community transmission of COVID-19, the precautions for NON-ARI (patients NOT in Droplet/Contact precautions) is being temporarily increased. These are precautions aimed at minimizing risk to staff from AGMPs from asymptomatic cases or…

In today’s Update: NEW questions added to staff screening attestation; updates about lab and staff testing; new break spaces opening tomorrow; and more!

In response to the slowdown of elective surgeries, a Reassignment Office has been opened at the KW Campus to support the transition of moving employees in areas where we have staffing overages to areas that…

As demand for COVID-19 testing continues to increase with COVID-19 cases in the Region, the microbiology department has established a regional priority-order process for swab testing. Click to read more.

Nov 26: generic sign template for unit-specific needs.

Remember: Hands: Be diligent about hand hygiene Face: Wear a mask at all times when physical distancing is not possible, in patient areas, and in public areas. Wear a mask and eye protection for ALL…

Nov 19: Some common FAQs about working (or not working!) when: you are sick; you need a COVID test or are waiting for results; someone in your household is sick; you’ve been exposed to COVID-19;…

Nov 16: List of AGMPs

November 16: The purpose of this document is to guide the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for all healthcare providers in the care of patients requiring AGMPs in the setting of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Nov 10: GRH has prepared a guideline for on-site visits by Service Providers, Contractors and Vendors during COVID-19.

Poster for staff COVID-19 Testing

Nov 3: Types of chemo-rated nitrile gloves available at GRH

Nov 3: Processes to manage quarantined or self-isolated visitors, including process for travellers from outside of Canada

Updated October 30: Isolation order process in Cerner, including the consultation and documentation required when altering isolation orders.

IPAC is implementing a strategy to automate the removal of COVID alerts. The timing for the removal of alerts will be based on current criteria for case resolution and incubation period, including a buffer window…

Oct 20: Update on Infectious Disease Emergency Leave and the Canada Recovery Benefits for employees.

Click here to read an update on COVID-19 related research activities happening at GRH & SMGH.

Oct 15: Contact information for counseling and crisis resources during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Oct 9: Clarification regarding repeat testing in COVID-19 suspected patients; Updated Case Resolution Guidelines; Updated guidance for testing of previously resolved cases

Oct 8: If you are looking for the most recent version of Directive 5, please check the Ministry website.

Oct 6: Today’s update with COVID lessons learned survey results, wave 2 planning, and reminders about staff COVID testing, self-screening, and the KW shuttle bus!

This summer we asked you to participate in the COVID 19 Lessons Learned Survey to help us better understand our response to the first wave of the pandemic and how we can improve moving forward….

Communications, with IPAC feedback, has created a screening signage poster for programs/units to use at their discretion.

Sept. 22: GRH staff (including providers) receive expedited testing at the drive thru testing clinic. We are modifying the process to ensure staff receive this expedited testing.

From: Marc Simard, Director Employee Health and Wellness Quick details The Occupational Health, Safety, and Wellness (OHSW) team has had reports of adverse reactions to prolonged use of masks. Common reactions include skin irritation and…

Sept 21: Introducing a new option for wall-mounted hand sanitizer to support us with ongoing sanitizer shortages

Sept 8: How our Purchasing and Occupational Health and Safety departments source new gloves, and an update on our glove supply.

Sept 3: Updates regarding leave of absence for staff who may need to care for children (or family) as a result of COVID-19

Aug. 21: Parking relocating to security office in the emergency department waiting room. Please access parking office through the main hospital not the emergency room doors.

Aug 21: New COVID testing platform + instructions on how to order COVID tests in Cerner

August 19: These signs were created to promote physical distancing in hospital spaces.

Virtual staff update hosted by Ron Gagnon, GRH President and CEO

July 21: While we wait for more hand sanitizer supply, materials management will be distributing 400ml pump bottles of hand sanitizer to par locations. These should be placed nearby the wall-mounted units.

June 30: Cohorting options for AROs.

Virtual staff update hosted by Ron Gagnon, GRH President and CEO

June 10: GRH and SMGH began contributing COVID-19 test results to the Ontario Laboratory Information System (OLIS) provincial database.

Virtual staff update hosted by Ron Gagnon, GRH President and CEO

May 12: Conserving PPE at GRH, including guidelines for safe reuse and extended use of some PPE.

April 29: Daily screening of all inpatients every 12 hours for COVID-19 typical and atypical symptoms.

April 27: We will open a new unit on Pioneer Terrace 3 at the Freeport Campus, tomorrow (April 28) to accept select COVID-positive patients.

April 24: We have received an updated directive from the Ministry of Health advising that hospitals may resume discharging of patients to retirement homes effective April 24.

There are a variety of resources available to you to support conversations with families and patients about death and dying during the COVID-19 pandemic.

April 21: GRH, SMGH, and CMH to accept transfers of approximately 40 residents of Forest Heights Long-Term Care Home to support outbreak management at that facility

Virtual staff update hosted by Ron Gagnon, GRH President and CEO

April 17: Update on regional planning to manage COVID-19.

April 17: There are many mental health supports available for staff, and we are introducing new and expanding services during this time.

The Ontario government has issued an Emergency Order (O. Reg. 146/20), Limiting Work to a Single Long-Term Care Home. This Order will presumably be in effect for the duration of the COVID-19 emergency.

Apr. 7: training for staff who wear N95s, and staff from Maintenance, Lab, Pharmacy, ED, ICU, CTU, Respiratory Therapy, KW Float Pool, and Spill Response Teams

Virtual staff update hosted by Ron Gagnon, GRH President and CEO

Apr. 1: How to put on and take off a procedure mask and/or eye protection (goggles/face shield)

April 3: Donning and doffing instructions for an N95 Respirator

April 3: Gowns, eye protection, and N95 masks may be reused and/or used for extended periods by following these donning and doffing instructions

Employee Health and Wellness is asking that any at-risk frontline health care provider who feel they may require an accommodation should submit their request.

We want to take the opportunity to remind all staff, physicians, volunteers, and learners that GRH has a social media policy as well as a Photography, Video Recording and Audio Recording policy.

These resources may be shared with patients, or staff may wish to review themselves. Both levels of government provide information about current case numbers, advice for the public, and the government response to COVID-19. Government…

Click here to be redirected to WHO Advice for the Public on COVID-19.

Click here to be redirected to the ROW Public Health Website.

These resources from Public Health Ontario and/or the Region of Waterloo Public Health are available to support patients with questions about COVID-19.

Virtual staff update hosted by Ron Gagnon, GRH President and CEO

These new plans have been designed by consensus based on best current available evidence, reviewed in Zynx in an expedited fashion by key stakeholders, and discussed at a clinical operations meeting on Friday, March 20.

March 20: Rules surrounding hospital issued and personally supplied scrubs; includes advice for laundering personal scrubs