NY-Presbyterian Hospital Revises Visitation Guidelines Due to Coronavirus

By: NYP Staff

In response to the evolving COVID-19 outbreak and in line with our revised Visitation Guidelines, only select entrances will be open at each Hospital throughout the NewYork-Presbyterian system. All other entrances will be closed and inaccessible to patients, visitors, and staff. The health and safety of our patients, visitors, employees, and our communities remain our top priority at NewYork-Presbyterian. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Health and safety are always our top priorities at NewYork-Presbyterian. We have been preparing and planning for COVID-19 and will continue to provide the exceptional care all of our patients and families have come to expect from us every day.

We have implemented vigorous policies and procedures and are following all governmental recommendations about the new coronavirus (COVID-19).

Many of our patients have reached out with common questions. Below you will find the latest information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), including guidance on how to keep yourself and your loved ones healthy.

The CDC recommends everyday preventive actions to help stop the spread of coronavirus, including:

• Wash your hands thoroughly or use alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick and encourage family to do the same.
• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash and immediately wash your hands. No tissue? Cough or sneeze into your elbow, not your hands.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Responses to Frequently Asked Questions

How serious is this virus and what are the range of symptoms?

Most people will only have mild symptoms, but some can become very sick. Symptoms can include fever, cough, or shortness of breath.

How long before symptoms of the virus appear?

The CDC believes at this time that symptoms of COVID-19 may appear between two and 14 days after exposure.

What happens if I’ve been exposed to someone with the virus or diagnosed with COVID-19?

If you think you may have been exposed to COVID-19 and have symptoms such as fever, cough, or shortness of breath, before going to a doctor’s office or emergency room, call ahead and tell them about your symptoms and any recent travel. You can also utilize NewYork-Presbyterian’s virtual care platform NYP OnDemand to meet with a doctor by video conference. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, your doctor will determine whether or not you need to come in to be evaluated. Avoid contact with others and wear a face mask if you need to leave your home when you are sick.

Can I visit family or friends who are patients at NewYork-Presbyterian hospitals?

Yes, you can still visit family or friends at NewYork-Presbyterian. We understand how important the support of loved ones and friends is to patients during their hospital stay. At the same time, the new coronavirus requires us to temporarily adjust our visiting policy in order to keep our patients and visitors safe from infection. Please see our updated visitor guidelines at: https://www.nyp.org/coronavirus-information/coronavirus-visitor-policy-change

I have a trip planned. Should I cancel it?

The CDC provides recommendations—called travel notices—on postponing or canceling travel. These notices are based on assessments of the potential health risks involved in traveling to a certain area. Here is a list of destinations with travel notices.

For more information:

NewYork-Presbyterian is committed to providing our patients with updated information. Please visit our website nyp.org for the latest news.

If you have concerns regarding COVID-19, please call NewYork-Presbyterian’s hotline at 646-697-4000. This hotline is available as a public service to provide information only and not to diagnose, treat, or render a medical opinion.

If you are not feeling well, consider using NewYork-Presbyterian’s Virtual Urgent Care for non-life-threatening symptoms such as fever, cough, upset stomach, or nausea. Learn more by visiting nyp.org/urgentcare.

            (nyp.org)