Here we explain how you can help us to prevent and control infection when you come to our hospitals.

Wear a face mask in clinical areas where indicated

Red sign shown in parts of the hospital where mask wearing is required

Face masks are required in a small number of clinical areas, specifically those areas treating patients who are a greater risk from COVID-19 infection (i.e. patients who have a weakened immune system). Patients and visitors are no longer required to wear masks in other areas, but if you choose to wear a mask, we fully support your right to do so.

Areas where masks are required will be clearly marked with signage, pictured here.

Visitors

  • Plan your visits so there are only two people at the bedside at any one time. See the Wards page for more information on ward visiting times.
  • Do not come to the hospital if they feel unwell, have a temperature, or have had diarrhoea or vomiting within the last 48 hours.
  • Wash your hands before entering a ward. Wash basins and hand gel are available throughout the hospital.
  • Use the public toilets, not the patient toilets on the wards. This reduces the risk of cross-infection.
  • Sit on a chair and not a hospital bed.
  • Do not bring in latex balloons, flowers and plants. These can be an infection risk or cause an allergic reaction for other patients and staff.
  • Wear protective equipment, such as face masks, aprons and gloves, if asked to do so.

Patients

  • Wash your hands regularly and carefully with soap and water or use alcohol hand rub:

• whenever your hands are dirty

• before and after eating your meals

• after using the toilet.

  • Let staff know straight away if you have diarrhoea or vomiting, or if you think may have a respiratory infection such as COVID-19 or flu
  • Bring your own personal toiletries with you, such as flannels, sponges, moist hand wipes and razors, and do not allow others to use them.
  • Ensure you have regular washes, showers or baths, where available. Please ask our staff if you need any help.
  • Avoid using bars of soap – use the liquid soap we provide instead.
  • Staff should wash their hands before having direct contact with you. If you are in any doubt, ask them to – they will be happy to do so.
  • Keep your room or bed space tidy and uncluttered, so our staff can clean it more easily.
  • Expect your room to be cleaned every day.
  • Expect to have fresh bed linen at least once a week.
  • Tell the nurse in charge if you are concerned about cleanliness.

Who can I contact with queries and concerns?

If you have any concerns or would like more information, please contact the manager of the ward or area affected.