banner lassen medical center

April 24, 2020

On April 23, 2020, Banner Lassen Medical Center (BLMC) participated in a survey with the California Department of Public Health that was a focused review of the critical elements associated with the transmission of COVID-19. The intent of the survey was to assure the hospital is following CMS guidance that was in effect at the time of the survey in order to help decrease the potential for transmission of COVID-19 within the facility and community.

The Surveyor visited many areas of the facility, spoke with leadership and numerous staff members and reviewed numerous policies and procedures related to our COVID-19 response. The survey focused on many areas including:

· Process for triaging patients for registration and the screening of visitors. 

· Policies and processes regarding standard and transmission-based precautions as well as general standard infection control practices.

· Observation of staff performing hand hygiene and appropriately using Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Observation was also completed on aerosol generating procedures and that the appropriate process was in place.

· Completion and implementation of the Infection Prevention Control Plan which includes all related policies and procedures.

· Observation of environmental cleaning protocols.

· Education, monitoring and screening of staff members. 

Banner Lassen Medical Center has completed a lot of work towards protecting our patients and community in preparation if we were to have an outbreak of COVID -19. We are pleased to share that the surveyor found no deficiencies during the visit and was impressed with all the work that the BLMC team has completed to prepare for the potential impact of the pandemic. They were also very proud of the citizens of Lassen County for all that the community is doing to continue to have no known cases of COVID-19.

Banner Lassen Medical Center has implemented visitor restrictions effective March 19, 2020, to create a safe and secure environment for our patients and our health care workers during the COVID-19 (novel coronavirus) pandemic. Visitors will no longer be allowed in Banner Hospitals. Effective immediately, we have one entrance for patients and visitors through the Emergency Department entrance.  As you are entering or exiting the facility there will be entrance screeners at the Emergency Department entrance. 

Visitation exceptions include: 

• Pediatric patients may have one adult visitor.
• WIS Patients, including antepartum, laboring, and post-partum patients may have one adult visitor.
• "End-Life" situations on a limited basis. 

These people will be screened and must stay with the patient. No wandering. 

We understand this will be challenging, but we’re committed to take the necessary precautions to protect you, your family, our health care workers and the community. As the COVID-19 impact continues to evolve there may be additional changes.

If you feel that you have COVID-19 symptoms, please home isolate and call your Primary care provider.  Banner Lassen Medical Center is working with Lassen County Public Health Department, and many other local agencies to provide the best care possible to our community. Restriction updates can be found Bannerhealth.com VisitorRestrictions.

Thank you,

Banner Lassen Medical Center

Update: 4/3/2020