VISITING to inpatients at hospitals in Dumfries and Galloway has resumed from today. However, restrictions mean that each patient is limited to one named visitor during the course of their time in hospital.
With specific exemptions, inpatient visiting was suspended nationally on 26 December 2020 in response to cases of COVID-19.
NHS Dumfries and Galloway Medical Director Dr Kenneth Donaldson said: “I’m pleased that the national easing of lockdown means that routine in-patient visiting can now resume.
“The benefits to patients of routinely being able to receive visitors is well-documented, and something we’re very pleased to see return.
“However, I would ask that everyone be aware of the continuing restrictions which do apply.
“Most importantly, please note that visiting is limited to one named visitor for each patient at any time, and that people are directed not to visit if they are unwell or have been asked to quarantine.”
In respect of routine inpatient visiting, as before each patient is limited to one named visitor. Arrangements must first be made by speaking to the charge nurse for the respective ward.
Anyone visiting the hospital must follow NHS Dumfries and Galloway’s hand hygiene and handwashing advice, to don personal protective equipment as directed, and not to visit if experiencing symptoms of flu, COVID, or if feeling generally unwell.
These measures are in the interests of the safety of patients and staff.
As is always the case, anyone experiencing any of the symptoms of coronavirus is asked to self-isolate and immediately seek testing.
Symptoms of COVID-19 are:
- Increased temperature
- Continuous cough
- Change to or loss of sense of taste and smell
Appointments via the mobile testing unit can be made at these centres each day from 9.30 am by logging on to the website: https://www.nhs.uk/ask-for-a-coronavirus-test
Full details of current visiting arrangements can be found on the NHS Dumfries and Galloway website at: https://www.nhsdg.co.uk/covid-19/
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