The use of surgical masks when coming to our hospitals
Posted Friday, June 12, 2020 1:52 PM
When coming into our hospitals please note the following:
- Wear a surgical face mask whilst inside the hospital (these will be provided if you on entry to our hospitals).
- If you have a medical exemption for wearing a face mask, please consider whether your medical condition makes you more vulnerable to infection if visiting and use digital options where possible. If you must visit our hospital then please talk to security on entry.
- Wash your hands on arrival at the hospital or use the hand sanitiser provided and frequently during the time you are in the department.
- Observe social distancing and maintain a distance of 2m from others, walk on the left of corridors and observe maximum occupancy signage for lifts and rooms.
People infected with COVID-19 can have very mild or no respiratory symptoms (asymptomatic) and can transmit the virus to others without being aware of it.
In line with recent recommendations from the World Health Organisation, we are introducing new measures at Sherwood Forest Hospitals to keep visitors, patients, and staff safe.
You will now need to wear a surgical face mask when you come to hospital as a visitor or outpatient. These will be supplied at hospital entrances if you do not have your own.
What does this mean for me?
We can all play a role in reducing the spread of coronavirus and keeping our hospitals safe. If you are coming to hospital as a visitor or for planned outpatient care, it is important that you wear a face-covering at all times. This is for your safety and the safety of other patients and staff.
For some people, wearing a surgical mask may be difficult due to physical or mental health conditions. In these instances, other measures will be considered on a case by case basis, for example, timed appointments and being seen immediately on arrival.
If you are a deaf or hearing impaired, our staff have a range of communication options to ensure that they can communicate effectively with you. This might include the use of clear masks where possible, as well as visual aids such as writing things down, speech to text apps and sign language.
All visitors will be expected to comply with existing social distancing and hand hygiene measures in addition to the face coverings while in the hospital setting.
Where do I go for more information?
If you have further questions regarding the changes we have made across the Trust, please ask a member of staff.