COVID-19: Measures implemented by the Champalimaud Foundation

In accordance with the new government directives, as well as recent updates from the Directorate-General for Health and the World Health Organisation, this is an opportune moment to share (remind and/or reinforce) the extraordinary measures of our global pandemic risk management plan, bearing in mind the essential goals of the CCU regarding this; i.e. to protect the health and safety of patients and staff while maintaining its operational infrastructure and continuing its main activities, whether in the clinical or research fields.

 

1. Access to the CCU

  • The CCU may now be accessed by the usual entrances;

  • Attribution of surgical masks and Hand-hygiene station available upon arrival;

  • All patients reporting symptoms associated with COVID-19 will be encouraged to contact the SNS 24 helpline;

  • Inpatient visits are restricted to 2 people at the same time, on the ward, and one person in intensive care;

  • COVID-19 test certificates are no longer required for in-patient visits;

  • Patients and visitors should avoid crowding.

 

2. Circulation rules and use of specific areas

  • Surgical masks must be worn in all areas of the Clinical Centre; 

  • Circulation around the building should be reduced to that which is absolutely necessary;

  • The bathroom facilities exclusively for staff use are duly marked.

 

3. Cafeteria Use

  • Given that the Cafeteria is inside the Clinical Centre, masks must be worn when circulating;

  • Regular cleaning and disinfection of equipment is maintained during periods of greater affluence;

  • Careful washing and disinfecting of hands before and after meals is mandatory.

 

4. Clinical activity

  • The use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) by health professionals continues to follow the appropriate safety recommendations for the various types of clinical intervention;

  • All clinical activities are now presencial.

 

5. Clinical Trials

  • Ongoing clinical trials in various Multidisciplinary Units remain open;

  • New patients may be recruited, upon compliance with inclusion criteria and assurance of access to any necessary medication or other necessary resources for the study.

 

6. SARS-CoV-2 screening

The objective of screening for the SARS-CoV-2 infection is early diagnosis, in order to detect potential foci of internal transmission and thus reduce the spread of COVID-19 disease.

Viral tests will be performed on all patients in the following situations:

  • Before surgery and invasive procedures and/or aerosol generators;

  • Before being admitted to the inpatient facilities;

  • Symptomatic patients (even if they have been previously diagnosed with COVID-19).

 

7. Virtual epidemiological vigilance

Those who have not yet been vaccinated for SARS-CoV-2 must complete the vaccination process by making an appointment on the SNS website.

Despite the good results achieved controlling disease by SARS-Cov-2, it is important to emphasise the importance of using the adequate face mask protection, mantaining the appropriate respiratory hygiene, hand washing, sanitation and social distancing behaviours. The Champalimaud Foundation continues its efforts to fight the coronavirus disease, in order to protect its patients and employees, while providing excellent clinical care

Stay Safe.


Updated on 5th May 2022

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