Bexhill Hospital

Protecting our patients and those who care for them is our top priority during the Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic. Because of the rise in Covid-19 cases in the local community we have now taken the difficult decision to further restrict visiting. This will be kept under constant review as we head towards Christmas.

From Friday 11 December 2020, essential visitors only will be allowedat Bexhill Irvine Unit. This means:

• Patients receiving end of life care – one visitor permitted at a time, unless assisting another. This must be arranged in advance
• Patients prior to needing ventilation – one visitor permitted for max of one hour. This must be arranged in advance
• Patients requiring individual carer support – identified carers will be permitted to support those with care requirements
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) will be provided to visitors/carers according to individual circumstances.

All visiting is at the discretion of the nurse in charge. Visiting must be prearranged by calling – Tel: 0300 131 4500 and asking for the ward you wish to visit.

All visitors must be Covid-19 symptom free and not be self-isolating.

All visitors need to adhere to Hands, Face, Space. Please wear a face covering for the duration of their visit, make sure you regularly wash your hands and keep your distance and follow the signs. Please also remember:

• You should not come into hospital if you have Covid-19 symptoms or any health concerns
• If you are in an at-risk group (anyone over 70, who has an underlying health condition, is pregnant or shielding) you are advised not to visit
• Please enter and leave through the main hospital entrance only
• Please bring as few bags, coats and other loose belongings with you as possible
• You may be asked to leave the ward during your visit. This may be because your relative or another patient requires treatment or if an emergency occurs
• Should the person you are visiting test positive for Covid-19 within 48 hours after your visit you will be considered by Test and Trace as a contact and required to isolate for 14 days.

We recommend that you use digital services such as Facetime, Skype, Zoom and WhatsApp to stay in touch with loved ones during their hospital stay, to minimise the risk of spreading or contracting the virus. We have tablets (with Zoom available) on our wards for use by patients who do not have a smartphone or other mobile device.