What cleaning precautions were taken at Holy Name?

In early May, Holy Name was the first hospital in northern New Jersey to perform a deep, rigorous cleaning of our 450,000 square feet of clinical and non-clinical space. We began with manual disinfection, than applied electrostatic sanitizing mist, and then blasted UV-C light to kill more than 30 types of pathogens - including COVID-19.

What other safety precautions are taking place?

Our routine steps include rigorous cleaning and sterilizing in patient care locations; adopting new screening protocols and protection procedures for patients and staff; and separating non- COVID treatment areas from COVID treatment areas.

What services are available to me currently?

We are reopening to the public in phases, expanding services as public health guidelines permit. Many outpatient services and treatments are currently available. As of May 26, in accordance with Governor Phil Murphy's executive order, elective surgeries and other invasive procedures will be allowed to resume. However, ALL OUTPATIENT AND INPATIENT PROCEDURES AND SERVICES MUST BE SCHEDULED.

Is it safe to go to the Emergency Department?

Yes, of course. We strongly advise anyone who is experiencing a medical emergency to call ahead to our Emergency Department at 201-833-3210 for instructions. We are screening all patients for COVID before entry into the ED.

Is it safe to have a baby at Holy Name?

Yes, we have welcomed many healthy babies over the past several months. However, no visitors will be allowed into our BirthPlace except one support person for the laboring mother, who must remain in the room and wear a mask once he/she is screened. All our physicians, nurses, and other patient care staff wear full PPE for protection. We have separate birthing suites and a C-section surgical suite for non-COVID mothers and for those who have tested positive. Before coming to the hospital, you must call your healthcare provider for further instructions about parking, entering the hospital, and screening procedures. You will be allowed to bring a small snack; meals will be provided to new moms and their support persons.

How often are patient areas cleaned?

Patient care areas are cleaned multiple times throughout the day. In outpatient areas, all exam rooms and equipment are cleaned thoroughly between patients.

How can I prepare in advance for my visit to the hospital?

You must pre-register with your provider before coming to the hospital. You will receive instructions from your provider or a member of the Holy Name staff as to what you should bring and where you should park. Bring only a minimum of necessities with you, including your insurance card.

What can I expect when I arrive at Holy Name?

You will be notified in advance as to where you should park and which entrance you should use. You will be escorted into the hospital. Face masks are required for all individuals entering our facilities. You may wear one from home, but it you don't have one, we will give you one. Depending on your appointment, you may be given a surgical mask. All Holy Name staff will be wearing masks as they move throughout the hospital and when caring for patients, reducing everyone's potential exposure to COVID-19.

Will I need to wear gloves or have access to hand sanitizer?

Upon your arrival, you will be given directions for hand hygiene. DO NOT wear gloves as they can be cross-contaminated. We have hand sanitizer dispensers throughout the hospital and outside every patient room.

Will I be screened for COVID-19 upon arrival?

Several days before your appointment, you will be screened by phone, and again upon your arrival. When you arrive here, park and come to the entrance where you have been instructed. You will be escorted into the hospital. Following hand hygiene, you will be escorted to your appointment area, the ED, or your room.

Will I encounter any COVID-19 treatment areas during my appointment or hospitalization?

No, all patients who are being evaluated and/or treated for COVID-19 are cared for in separate areas of the ED, in COVID-only negative-pressure nursing units, and in specialized ICUs.

How is social distancing maintained in waiting areas?

Appointment times are being spaced out to allow for a minimum of people in all areas. When you arrive, park and go to the entrance where you have been instructed. In most cases, you will be escorted directly to a private room for evaluation and treatment. Appropriate social distancing of at least 6 feet apart is maintained in all waiting areas.

Are visitors allowed back into the medical center?

Beginning July 27, 2020, Holy Name is expanding its visitor policy to welcome patient visitors back into the Medical Center, daily including weekends, from noon to 8 p.m. only and within these guidelines:

• One visitor per inpatient, including pediatric patients.
• One visitor with a patient in the Emergency Department.
• One support person for a woman delivering a baby.
• One person to accompany a patient undergoing an outpatient procedure, who will be allowed to stay with the patient prior to the procedure only.
• All vendors and salespeople will continue to be barred from entering the medical center.

All visitors must be over age 18 and will be screened upon arrival in the main lobby or the ED, including a temperature scan at one of the kiosks, in addition to practicing hand hygiene.

Will I have access to the Bistro café, Starbucks, or gift shop?

No, these areas are still closed.

Are hospital events, lectures, classes, and Cancer Support Community programs still on hold?

Cancer Support Community programs are being held virtually until further notice. Please see our calendar of events to register online at Holyname.org/Cancersupport or email cancersupport@holyname.org for more information.

How do I schedule a visit with a Holy Name provider?

You can schedule a telemedicine appointment with a Holy Name healthcare provider at NorthJerseyTelemedicine.com. Once you locate your provider, you must call his/her office to book an appointment. Online scheduling will be coming soon.

If I don't have a primary care healthcare provider or specialist, can Holy Name help me find one?

Yes, visit NorthJerseyTelemedicine.com. You can find a primary care provider by entering internal medicine, family medicine, pediatrics, or obstetrics/gynecology to search for a provider.