Dear Resident Family Member,
COVID-19 Update for Calvary Cessnock Residents and Families
We are pleased to advise that, in consultation with the Hunter New England Public Health Unit, we have been able to now ease restrictions for all residents of our Windemere household at Calvary Cessnock.
This follows negative COVID-19 results in the latest round of testing.
This means that the original seven (7) residents who had been positive for COVID-19 are now able to leave their rooms, move freely about their own household, and enjoy communal dining and activities with other Windemere residents.
Our staff will continue to wear personal protective equipment, including N95 masks and eye protection, and are closely monitoring all residents for any symptoms.
The next round of testing for residents of the Elrington household is scheduled for Monday. In the meantime, Elrington residents continue to receive all care in their rooms. We will update you again early next week when those test results are known and we have had further discussions with the Public Health Unit about when these restrictions can also be lifted.
Information for visitors to Calvary Cessnock
Although Calvary Cessnock remains in lockdown until the Public Health Unit deems it safe to reopen, visitation is now allowed at Calvary Cessnock in line with Calvary’s Position Statement on Visiting in Aged Care.
There are, however, specific requirements to help keep our residents, their visitors and our staff as safe as possible:
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One (1) fully vaccinated visitor (Partner in Care) per resident will be permitted entry during the home’s designated visiting hours.
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All visitors will be supplied with the appropriate PPE (including face masks and shields as appropriate) to wear whilst visiting. Staff will assist you with donning (putting on) and doffing (removing) PPE correctly.
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All visits must be booked in advance. Please contact 4993 9000 during regular business hours to make your booking.
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All visitors will need to undertake a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) before entering. This takes time, and we ask for your patience as we manage this important screening process.
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All visitors are asked to please stop in at the main administration building, where staff will be on hand to administer the test.
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There are two (2) periods for arriving visitors – 11am to 2pm; and from 3.15pm to 5pm. The set time periods relate to visitors’ arrival on site. Once inside, visitors may stay longer.
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No visitor bookings and RAT tests will be available between 2.00pm and 3.15pm. This is to allow screening staff the time needed to test the large volume of staff arriving on site for afternoon shift.
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We understand that there may sometimes need to be exceptions. If so, please make prior arrangements with the home manager – contact 4993 9000 during business hours.
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Visitation exceptions may also be made for residents receiving end of life care, residents who may be experiencing distress, or where a special care and support role is provided. Please speak with the home manager to discuss arrangements.
Our video call system remains in place, so please contact the home to book a video call with your loved one, or if you have any concerns.
Thank you for your continued support and understanding during this challenging time.
Sincerely,
Sandeep Kandel
General Manager, Aged Care
