Infection control is something Norton Children’s Hospital takes very seriously. We want children to be able to heal in a healthy, safe environment. That’s why we have infection control guidelines that help all of us minimize the risk of spreading infection to children.

• Hospital staff will follow strict protocols about hand-washing and wearing protective equipment — such as gloves, gowns and masks. The use of gowns and masks is determined by the patient care activity provided.
• We ask that all caregivers and visitors be healthy — free from fever, cough, cold or stomach virus symptoms. This includes living with people who also are free from virus symptoms. Visitors can unintentionally spread germs if someone in their household is ill. All visitors will be asked to complete a health screening form prior to entering the unit.
• We ask all caregivers to wash their hands often, especially before and after visiting a patient. During peak times of illness in the community (think flu season), children under age 16 are asked not to visit intensive care units. The Neonatal Intensive Care units (NICU) are closed to sibling visits during respiratory season, typically November through May.