QCH and the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)

QCH is actively involved in caring for patients with the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).


For the latest information on the virus, please visit Ottawa Public Health: Novel Coronavirus


How are we keeping you safe?

The safety of our patients has always and will always be a topmost priority at Queensway Carleton Hospital.


Since March, we have been working diligently to make our patients feel safe when they need to come to QCH for care during these unprecedented times.

  • QCH staff are actively screening all patients at the Emergency Department and our entrances upon arrival
  • All areas of our hospital are thoroughly cleaned frequently by our staff
  • Physical distancing markers have been put in place at hospital entrances to ensure you stay 6 feet apart


Our Infection Prevention and Control team is in close contact with Ottawa Public Health and other agencies to help guide decision-making and receive updates on the virus.


What if you think you may have COVID-19?

If you suspect you have the virus, or have been in close contact with someone who does, Ottawa Public Health has created this self-assessment tool that will help you figure out your next steps.

 

Symptoms to watch for:

  • COVID-19 has classic symptoms such as feeling feverish, new or worsening cough, and/or difficulty breathing.
  • Other symptoms of COVID-19 can include: sore throat, difficulty swallowing, loss of taste/smell, nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, pneumonia, runny rose or nasal congestion 

Please self-isolate for 14 days if:

  • You have returned from travel outside Canada
  • You have been diagnosed with COVID-19, or are waiting for test results
  • You have symptoms of COVID-19, even if they are mild
  • You have been in contact with a confirmed or probable case of COVID-19
  • You are immunocompromised or have an underlying condition or are over the age of 70

 

Please consult the Ottawa Public Health website for the most recent information on COVID-19, including a full list of symptoms and testing information.

 

Patients coming to QCH

Starting June 15, 2020, Queensway Carleton Hospital is resuming some of the clinical services around our hospital.

 

Care teams are reviewing each case individually based on medical needs and urgency, ensuring that risks and benefits are properly evaluated before rescheduling the surgery, procedure, diagnostic imaging, or clinic appointment that cannot be done virtually. Patients will be contacted as their care can be rescheduled.

 

In order to keep everyone safe, we have put some new practices in place.


Upon arrival at the main entrance:

  • You will be screened for symptoms at one of three screening stations
  • You are required to wear a mask at all times when you are in the hospital – you asked are to bring your own cloth mask
  • Please stand 6 feet apart from others to ensure proper physical distancing
  • Please arrive no earlier than 30 minutes in advance of your scheduled appointment – you will not be allowed entry if you arrive too early


An important note: if you are screened positive for one of the symptoms of COVID-19, be prepared to potentially have your appointment rescheduled as you will not be allowed to proceed into the hospital.


There will be a Volunteer on hand to help guide you to a waiting room. Please maintain appropriate physical distance while waiting for your appointment and wear a mask at all times. All waiting rooms are cleaned thoroughly and often to ensure your safety.

 

Help us keep everyone safe: if you are coming to Queensway Carleton Hospital for an appointment, please wear a cloth mask. Cloth masks are available for purchase at several retailers in Ottawa – here is a list of places to purchase a cloth mask, provided by Ottawa Public Health. Thank you.


Visiting QCH

In order to protect everyone's health, visitors will no longer be permitted at QCH. More information can be found on our Visitor Restrictions page.

 

West COVID-19 Care Clinic

The COVID-19 Care Clinic in Ottawa’s West end – operated by QCH, in partnership with Ottawa Public Health and community physicians – opened Monday, April 6th.


The Care Clinic is located at 595 Moodie Drive at the D. Aubrey Moodie Intermediate School and is open Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

 

It is primarily for treatment for people with symptoms of respiratory illness – cough, fever, and cold-like symptoms – in need of medical attention. It will be equipped to do basic diagnostic tests, such as chest X-rays and lab tests.


Should I go to the Care Clinic?

Use the self-assessment tool to help determine if you should seek care from the COVID-19 Care Clinic. If it is determined you should seek care, or you think your respiratory symptoms are worsening, you do not need a referral or to contact Ottawa Public Health before going to the Care Clinic.

 

What to expect when you come to the West COVID-19 Care Clinic

  • The West COVID-19 Care Clinic is experiencing a significant increase in volume, resulting in longer wait times. Depending on the time of day, the wait could be up to 2 – 4 hours.
  • Please expect to wait outdoors for a period of time: consider bringing water, sunscreen, and a chair or umbrella if needed to help you beat the heat.
  • You will be asked to wear a face mask and physically distance, both in line and within the Care Clinic.
  • Security, management and physicians regularly walk the line and check on vulnerable patients.
  • We strive to have results back to everyone as quickly as possible, and most have recently received them within 24-48 hours. However, at times it could extend as long as 3-5 days for some patients, due to circumstances beyond our control.

Please come prepared. Your health and your safety are important to us. And thank you for your support.


What about the QCH Emergency Department?

If you or a loved one is in a life-threatening situation, dial 911 or go to your nearest hospital Emergency Department. If you are unsure whether it is an emergency, you may call Telehealth Ontario, a free telephone service from the Ontario Government at 1-866-797-0000, and speak with one of their nurses or you should visit your closest Emergency Department. The QCH Emergency Department is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

 

For more information on the West Care Clinic, please visit Ottawa Public Health.