People infected with COVID-19 can have very mild or no respiratory symptoms (asymptomatic) and can transmit the virus to others without being aware of it.
In line with recent recommendations from the World Health Organisation, we are introducing new measures at Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust to keep visitors, patients, and staff safe.
From Monday, 15th June 2020 you will need to wear a face covering when you come to hospital as a visitor or outpatient.
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What does this mean for me?
If you are coming to hospital as a visitor or for planned outpatient care, you will be required to put on a surgical mask on entry to the hospital (or healthcare setting). The surgical mask should remain in place covering your mouth and nose for the duration of your attendance in the hospital (or healthcare setting). This is for your safety and the safety of other patients and staff.
If you are wearing a cloth-based or homemade face covering, you will be required to change to a surgical mask on entry to the hospital (or healthcare setting). This is in line with national NHS guidance as a surgical mask provides greater protection than cloth-based or homemade face coverings.
Face coverings can be cloth and/or homemade and may be worn in other environments outside of hospital or healthcare settings. Advice on how to wear and make one can be found on the government website. Face coverings worn as part of religious beliefs or cultural practice are also acceptable, providing they are not loose and cover the mouth and nose.
For some people, wearing a surgical mask or face covering may be difficult due to physical or mental health conditions. In these instances, other measures will be considered on a case by case basis, for example timed appointments and being seen immediately on arrival.
If you are a deaf or hearing impaired, our staff have a range of communication options to ensure that they can communicate effectively with you. This might include the use of clear masks where possible, as well as visual aids such as writing things down, speech to text apps and sign language.
All visitors will be expected to comply with existing social distancing and hand hygiene measures in addition to wearing a surgical mask while in the hospital (or healthcare setting).