Coronavirus Resource Hub

COVID-19 hospital updates

Visitor restrictions

We have implemented a restricted visitation policy at University of Iowa Health Network Rehabilitation Hospital, a venture with Encompass Health. To promote the health and safety of our patients and employees, visitor restrictions are in place at our hospital. Please contact us for the most current visitor policy. Our primary goal in restricting visitors is to safeguard our patient population from contracting COVID-19 and maintain the health of our hospital staff. During this time, phone and video calls are encouraged as alternative methods of communication.

COVID-19 updates

How we have prepared for COVID-19

With the safety of our patients, staff and guests being our top priority, we believe we are prepared to follow any reporting, quarantine and medical follow-up recommendations provided by the CDC and local health authorities. 

We are following this outbreak closely and making sure that our clinicians are kept up-to-date on the current recommendations for screening patients. Our preparation plan includes our existing infection control protocols, education for leadership and employees on the CDC’s recommendations for signs/symptoms, prevention and treatment as well as employee refresher training on use of personal protective equipment.

In addition, we are taking the following actions in our hospital as safety precautions including:

• All equipment in our therapy gym will continue to be cleaned thoroughly between each patient.
• During therapy hours in the gym, social distancing recommendations will be followed with our patients.
• Patient communal dining will be restricted with the exception of therapeutic feeding groups, which may continue with appropriate social distancing between patients.
• Until further notice, we have closed self-serve bars in our cafeterias.
• Lastly, all non-emergency or non-essential company travel has been halted for our employees.

Keeping you safe

COVID-19 information provided by the CDC

General precautions

Whether at home, in public venues or at work, each of us is exposed to a range of illnesses including colds and flu. If you’re feeling ill, stay home, and seek care if you have signs of serious illness such as:

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath

Prevention recommendations

• Clean your hands often
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick
• Put distance between yourself and other people if COVID-19 is spreading in your community. This is especially important for people who are at higher risk of getting very sick.

Tips on preventing the spread of infection

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water for 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub (hand sanitizer) with at least 60% alcohol.
• Cover your cough with your upper sleeve or elbow to keep germs from spreading.
• Avoid sharing drinks, food, and/or cigarettes or vaping products.
• If you share a room or apartment with someone who is sick, try to stay at least 6 feet away to prevent exposure through coughing.
• Stay home if you’re sick and avoid contact with other people.

For more information on COVID-19, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html. 

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