Visiting hours to return to hospital

Limited visiting is to be re-introduced at The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital (RJAH) from today (Friday) for patients with the longest stays. 

Inpatients on the Midland Centre for Spinal Injuries (MCSI) and Sheldon Ward, the hospital’s general medicine and rehabilitation ward, and long stay oncology and tumour patients are to be allowed a “named visitor” under refreshed rules, in order to give them greater contact with their loved ones.

The change does not represent a return to business as usual at the Oswestry-based hospital, as visiting will still be largely limited, to minimise any risk of Covid-19 being brought onto the site. 

Sara Ellis-Anderson, Chief Nurse and Patient Safety Officer at RJAH, said: “The halt we put on visiting towards the end of last year was the right thing to do to protect our patients and our staff. 

“But we know that being in hospital can be a difficult time for people, and not being able to see any of their family or loved ones has made it even harder. We’ve tried to help them with technology to allow virtual contact, but nothing beats being able to talk to someone face-to-face.” 

Some shorter stay patients with exceptional needs - including paediatric patients and those on an end-of-life care pathway – will also be allowed a named visitor. 

Exceptional circumstances could also refer to people with a learning disability or dementia, where there may be increased distress. It could also mean that allowing a visitor may be of significant benefit to that patient. 

Any other relatives who feel they have exceptional circumstances as to why they should be allowed to visit will need to discuss on a case-by-case basis with the nurse-in-charge. 

Patients will be allowed one named visitor (or two on MCSI), and visitor(s) must book their visits with the Ward Clerk in the ward, where their loved one is staying. 

Visitors will need to wear face masks at all times, and will be provided with a surgical face mask by the hospital on arrival, and must follow guidance on hand hygiene and social distancing whilst on site.

The changes are in line with guidance from NHS England and NHS Improvement, who are encouraging the gradual resumption of visiting in order that patients and visitors can see their families and loved ones. 

Individual wards will be able to use their own discretion as to time slots they offer to visitors, though all appointments for the day must be concluded by 7pm, in order that thorough cleaning can take place.