For the City Times

MARSHFIELD –Effective March 24, Marshfield Clinic Health System is prohibiting visitations until further notice.

“This step is being undertaken to keep patients, their loved ones, and our staff safe by limiting the potential to spread COVID-19 within our facilities. These temporary visitor restrictions apply to visitation for hospitals and for clinic appointments,” the clinic said in a release.

There are certain exceptions and situations where adult visitors may be allowed, including: pediatric (including NICU) patients – one visitor; OB patients –one visitor/support person; patients where a caregiver is essential to their care, such as a patient with altered mental status, developmental delay or physical disability requiring assistance with medical care or activities of daily living; patients who have power of attorney or court-appointed guardians; patients who have the potential for a sudden status change.

All visitors should be free of illness or symptoms, and at least 18 years old. Visitors should anticipate being screened for symptoms of illness. Visitors should not remove any supplies or equipment from Marshfield Clinic Health System and limit the personal items they bring into the facility. Visitors should plan to stay in the patient’s room for the duration of the visit. Visitors must wash hands or use hand sanitizer every time they enter or exit a patient room or exam room.