In recent weeks, the COVID infection rate in the community and Bedfordshire Hospitals has been increasing.
The Trust recognises, and values, the contribution that visiting provides to patient wellbeing and recovery, as well as the reassurance it offers to loved ones.
Adult Inpatients
As of Monday 8 November 2021, Bedfordshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust will be continuing to allow visiting to Adult Inpatient wards at both hospital sites, however there will be an increase in restrictions.
To ensure patients and staff are protected, and to minimise the spread, the Trust kindly asks for the following principles to be followed:
- Visiting will be for one hour, every other day between 2pm and 6pm.
- One close family contact, or somebody important to the patient, may visit. This person will be the only one permitted to attend for each visit.
- All visitors must produce a negative lateral flow result, via the NHS App*. If a visitor does not show this, they will not be permitted on the ward.
- Visitors will be required to wear the appropriate PPE. This includes a surgical mask and not a face covering.
- If the visitor has tested positive, or comes into close contact with someone who has (including a household contact), unfortunately they will not be able to visit, unless it is exceptional circumstances.
- Children will not be able to accompany a visitor on adult wards
Before visiting, the visitor should contact the relevant ward to book a time and discuss appropriate arrangements.
Contact details for wards and departments are available here. Please be patient when calling the ward staff – they will do their very best to help you.
However, in exceptional circumstances, as listed below, visiting may vary and can be discussed with the ward manager.
- If the patient is receiving end of life care
- If the patient has dementia, learning disabilities or a mental health illness and need a carer/support present
*If you have tested positive for COVID-19 in the past 90 days, you will not be required to present this, but will need proof of a previous positive test on the NHS App and must be asymptomatic at the time of visiting.
Paediatrics and Neonatal
There are no changes to visiting in the Paediatric and Neonatal units.
Paediatrics:
- One parent only at all times, unless an exceptional circumstance
- No siblings or extended family
Neonatal:
- Both parents are permitted
- No siblings or extended family
Lateral Flow Test (LFT)
As above, visitors must carry out LFT prior to visiting a loved one in hospital, no more than 3 days or 72 hours before).
These tests are for people who do not have COVID symptoms.
You can order a test online here: https://www.gov.uk/order-coronavirus-rapid-lateral-flow-tests or if you cannot order online, call 119. Lines are open 7am to 11pm and calls are free.
If your swab is positive, please stay home and contact the Trust to confirm you need to cancel your appointment or visit.