The Saskatchewan Health Authority has updated its visitor guidelines for maternity wards.

Effective immediately, expectant mothers and families will now be allowed to have two designated family members or support people present in the room.

Designated family members/support persons are chosen by the mother and family and may include but are not limited to partners, family members, coaches, doulas or cultural support persons.

All patients and their designated guests will have to be screened for COVID-19 upon arrival and be required to have a temperature check, wear a mask, participate in hand hygiene and follow physical distancing guidelines.

Symptomatic people will not be allowed in, and the designated guests must be consistent during the entire time in hospital. They may leave the hospital but can’t be switched out for other people.

All maternal patients will be offered an optional COVID-19 swab upon admission. Family members/support persons will not be offered a COVID-19 swab.