Infection Prevention and Control
We see thousands of patients every week across our hospitals. High volumes of people indoors increase the spread and risk of infection which we take very seriously.
We want you to feel confident that you’re getting the right care in a clean and safe environment. You can help to reduce the spread of infections in our hospitals by following some simple guidelines.
We have put further safety measures in place as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Help us to prevent the spread of infection
Do NOT come to hospital if you have:
- COVID-19 symptoms
- tested positive for COVID-19
- flu-like symptoms
- vomiting and or diarrhoea
If you have an appointment at one of our hospitals, please call us so we can rearrange.
Please call NHS 111 for medical advice.
Guidance for patients
To keep other patients and staff safe, we ask you to please continue to wear a facemask when attending appointments or receiving treatment or care in our hospitals or community healthcare facilities.
Guidance for visitors
To keep other patients and staff safe, we would ask you to please continue to wear a facemask when you are visiting our hospitals or community healthcare facilities.
Clean your hands
COVID-19 and other viruses and bacteria can stay on surfaces for some time. To protect yourself and your loved ones, please wash your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitiser as often as possible.
- Watch an NHS video on how to wash your hands thoroughly to reduce the risk of infection.
- You can also see our 13-step guide on how to wash your hands
- Try not to touch your face (including your mouth, nose and eyes) as this is an easy way to spread the virus.
Keep your distance
Leave at least 2 metres between you and other people. It’s one of the main things you can do to reduce the risk of catching or spreading COVID-19.
Stay in place
We know it can be hard to stay in the same place for a long time, but moving around can quickly spread the virus, especially if you do not know you have it. It also increases the chance of you catching it.
- Please do NOT visit other parts of the hospital unless you’re asked to by a member of staff.
- If you’re asked to stay in a waiting or treatment area, please stay there.