COVID-19 Alert 13 February – ‘Circuit Breaker’ update

‘Circuit Breaker’ Update

In the space of 24 hours, we have already seen information and advice evolve as the situation does.  Please review the updated and new information and resources and check back regularly as updates are ongoing.

I remind all our employees that surgical masks must now be worn in all settings at Monash Health. The latest updates to PPE tiers are outlined below and we will provide further alerts as the situation and advice changes.

I appreciate everyone’s efforts in pulling together to ensure we can protect those we care for and each other. I understand that it can’t have been easy, particularly in handling the disappointment of families and patients through visitor restrictions. Thank you for adapting rapidly and remaining dedicated to the task at hand throughout these latest challenges. Thanks also to the employees who are giving their time this weekend to ensure we can stay the course.

Elective surgeries and procedures

Following the pause on certain elective surgeries and procedures, our Elective Services Team are currently contacting patients planned for attending between Monday 15 to Wednesday 17 February. Patients are being advised whether to proceed as planned or if their surgery or procedure is being deferred and will be rescheduled.

Clinic appointments

Most clinic appointments are continuing with the current arrangement. However, where this is not the case the patients are being contacted to advise of alternative arrangements.

Student clinical placements update

​The Chief Health Officer has advised that the essential workers list has been updated and the following student clinical placements will recommence from Monday 15 February 2021:

• Allied Health
• Medical
• Nursing and Midwifery
• Paramedics

Remaining student placements will be advised by Wednesday 17 February 2021.

Permits for drivers of permitted essential workers

Essential workers who require a member from their household to drive them to and from work can fill in the permitted worker driver permit form. This ensures the driver can show a valid reason for driving outside the 5km radius when returning home or driving to pick you up.

Download the form, fill it in and ask your manager to sign it. Your driver must carry the permit with them and only use it for the specified purpose.

Advice for screening teams: Updated visitor/patient screening questions

Screening teams are advised to take the time to familiarise themselves with the latest screening questions, updated on 13 February and ready to download here.

Updated 13 February: PPE compulsory standards

Following the latest advice, PPE information has been updated.

• Tier 1 PPE now requires eye protection (face shield preferred)
• All low-risk, high-risk and confirmed COVID-19 patients require use of Tier 3 PPE
• Care of all persons in quarantine requires use of Tier 3 PPE

Download the most recent compulsory standards poster here.

Updated 13 February: Visitor restrictions

Visitor restrictions have changed, with the latest version from 13 February available here.

Thank you for your commitment and resilience as we work through this together.

Andrew Stripp

Chief Executive