Visits to the four municipal EHPADs in the city of Nice had been suspended following a worsening of the health situation. Since Wednesday, residents can receive their loved ones again, thanks to the implementation of a set of very strict measures. The Mayor of Nice was present this Wednesday at the Valrose EHPAD to present the health protocol put in place.
“My primary concern is first and foremost for our seniors and those who are most vulnerable, who have conditions like diabetes and diseases that expose them even more to the consequences that the virus could represent,” highlighted Christian Estrosi. A screening campaign was conducted before authorizing the reopening of visits. With a return of 0% positivity among all residents and staff, families have been able to visit their loved ones since Wednesday, albeit under very strict health measures.
Secure Visits
“The families of the residents of the facility contact us to express their wish to visit their loved ones. We schedule an appointment,” explains Jennifer Villelonge, head of the EHPAD. From Monday to Sunday, visitors can go to the four residences by appointment in advance and by committing to adhere to the hygiene measures implemented.
Five visits per day will be organized, lasting approximately 30 to 40 minutes, with a maximum of two visitors per time slot. A form will also be given to them upon each arrival to understand their situation, “to know if there have been no symptoms, if everything is fine on their end, they inform us,” adds the manager.
Setting up a Tent
Therefore, most visits will take place in a tent set up outside. Inside, a plexiglass is positioned between the visitor and the resident to avoid any risk of contact. Two entrances are also arranged on the tent, one for the elderly and one for the family.
Wearing a mask and hand disinfection before each appointment are mandatory. Professionals remain slightly around the exchange to ensure that safety measures are strictly followed.
For colder days, indoor visits will be possible in a room arranged in the same way, but with an even stricter health protocol. “Inside, it’s the same procedure; the difference is that when you enter the EHPAD, there are additional procedures to implement,” expresses Jennifer Villelonge. Each visitor will therefore need to sanitize their hands, have their temperature taken, wear an overshirt, overshoes, and a mask provided by the facility.
