BRADFORD hospital visitors and people attending their outpatients’ appointments must now wear a face mask or face covering at all times to protect them and others from coronavirus.
The new legislation comes into force on Monday, June 15 and applies to hospitals across the UK, including the hospitals which are part of Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust – Bradford Royal Infirmary, St Luke’s Hospital, Westbourne Green and Westwood Park.
The Trust’s Chief Nurse, Karen Dawber said: “Evidence from the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE) previously confirmed face coverings can help reduce the risk of transmission if you are suffering from coronavirus, but not showing symptoms.
“As a result, we are now asking all members of the public coming to our hospitals to wear a mask or face covering when they arrive. This will help to protect them and others. This can be a fabric, non-medical mask. In the event of an emergency, a face mask will be provided.
“We are also asking that as well as wearing a mask or face covering, visitors and outpatients continue to use the alcohol gel provided on all our wards and departments on entering and leaving. It is vitally important to maintain good hand hygiene at all times and to wash hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the toilet and before eating.
“We would also like to remind visitors of observing the 2 metres social distancing rules.”
It is important that masks and face coverings are fitted and worn safely and correctly.
NHS staff already wear face masks in clinical areas within two metres of a patient, but this new guidance now applies to everyone working in all areas of the hospital.
You should also observe the following advice:
- In addition to wearing a face covering or mask, visitors should use the alcohol gel available in all ward and departments on entering and leaving.
- You should not touch the front of your face covering or mask as it is likely to be contaminated
- Ensure you maintain two metres distance between you and others wherever possible
- Please wash your hands after visiting the toilet or before you eat or drink
- Members of the public are strongly urged to attend hospital wearing a face covering, but a face mask will be provided in emergencies.
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