A one-bag, one-visitor policy initially introduced at the Royal Alexandra Hospital following a violent incident earlier this spring is now being expanded to the emergency departments at the University of Alberta Hospital and the Stollery Children's Hospital. The new safety measures aim to protect patients, staff, and visitors by restricting belongings and limiting the number of people in these critical care areas.
Policy Details
Under the updated rules, both patients and visitors are permitted to bring only a single bag each when entering the emergency department. Any additional belongings will be securely held by Protective Services until the individual leaves the department. This measure is designed to reduce clutter, keep walkways clear, and ensure that space is available for patient care.
Each patient is also limited to one visitor or support person at a time. Hospital officials explain that this restriction is intended to decrease crowding and noise levels in emergency departments, preserving space for care delivery and emergency access. Exceptions will be made for patients requiring additional support, as determined by clinical staff, as well as for essential items such as medical equipment and childcare supplies.
Background and Implementation
The policy expansion builds on earlier changes at the Royal Alexandra Hospital, where mandatory bag searches were implemented in response to a violent incident and broader concerns about safety in the emergency department. By applying the same approach across additional major Edmonton hospitals, officials hope to create a safer and more organized environment for everyone.
Hospital administrators emphasize that these changes are necessary to maintain a secure and efficient healthcare setting. The one-bag, one-visitor policy will be enforced by hospital security and protective services staff, who will also assist with storing extra items and managing access.
For more information, patients and visitors are encouraged to contact the hospital directly or visit the official Alberta Health Services website.
