As The Outer Banks Hospital and Outer Banks Medical Group responds to the evolving COVID-19 pandemic, we are taking steps to ensure the safety of everyone. We remain vigilant with our screening process for all visitors, entry requirements, and visitor restrictions by department.
In response to increased community spread and the heightened risk of hospitalization posed by the Delta variant, The Outer Banks Hospital, and Medical Group is adjusting visitation restrictions effective at 7 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 13. Specifics are outlined in the included table and can be accessed online at TheOBH.com/alerts.
It remains vitally important that community members continue to practice safety measures such as washing hands, wearing a mask, and avoiding large gatherings.
Visitor Screening Process
- Have you tested positive for COVID-19 within the past 14 days, or are you waiting for the results of a COVID-19 test?
- Have you had close contact with a person with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 in the past 14 days?
- Have you had any of these symptoms in the past 48 hours?
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- New loss of taste or smell
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Any other symptoms of illness
If the answer is yes to any of the above, the visitor may not enter.
Entry Requirements
- Temperature check: Temperature must be under 100°.
- Masking: Wear mask at all times in the building. Screeners will provide you a hospital mask if you do not have one. Cloth masks are permitted.
- Hand-washing: Visitors must use gel or hand sanitizer on entry.
- Social distancing: Avoid close contact with others.
- Limit the number of personal belongings you bring on your visit.
- Limit your visit to the patient’s room, and kindly do not go elsewhere in the hospital except to the Café.
This is an evolving situation, and The Outer Banks Hospital and the Medical Group continue to monitor the spread and examine local data, including COVID-19 cases in our region, and we will adjust visitation restrictions accordingly. Visitors are encouraged to call ahead to the hospital or the medical practice if they have questions about visitation restrictions.
We strongly encourage visitors to consider virtual visitation options such as FaceTime and phone calls. Assistance with virtual visits, including iPads for patients without the necessary technology, is available on request. Virtual visitation is the safest way to stay connected with a loved one.
Patients should limit the belongings they bring to a few key items in accordance with the tips below:
- Bring your phone, tablet or other electronic device to connect with family members.
- Limit clothing to clean undergarments and one outfit for discharge.
- Wear or pack non-slip shoes.
For the latest information on visitor restrictions, please visit TheOBH.com/alerts.
