Visitor Restrictions Now in Effect at All Des Moines Area Hospitals (Updated 3/25) Press Release March 11, 2020 Effective Wednesday, March 25, visitors are NOT allowed unless the visitor is a designated caregiver and the patient falls into one of the following categories: ED/Outpatient Areas/Clinics: One visitor All other areas one visitor only allowed under the following circumstances: Patient is imminently dying. Patient is a minor under age 18. Patient is suffering from confusion or delirium. In Maternity Services (Labor & Delivery, Postpartum) one designated caregiver/support person. Doulas and outside birth coaches will not be permitted. Patient having surgery- one visitor only through pre-surgical area, waiting rooms and through the duration of the patient’s surgery and post-op course until discharged home. Designated caregivers must be free of any signs of illness. Individuals at high risk for severe disease (e.g., underlying cardiopulmonary disease, poorly controlled diabetes) should not visit. Designated caregivers must: Siblings under the age of 16 are not allowed Always remain in patient room as appropriate Limit movement within the facility and avoid common areas Be free from illness such as (fever, sore throat, cough, diarrhea, vomiting or runny nose) Visitors may be screened by hospital personnel. Designated caregivers are required to wash hands with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand foam/gel upon entering and exiting patient’s room. Team members will provide instructions if additional PPE is required. We understand these visitor restrictions may be difficult for you. While we are committed to providing a family-centered care environment, right now restricting visitors is in the best interest of our patients and staff. Thank you for your cooperation in this effort. For up-to-date information related to COVID-19, please visit www.polkcountyiowa.gov/health.