Grimsby Hospital visiting restrictions extended
A "pause" to visiting brought in on Friday will continue, because of the number of Covid-19 patients
Visiting restrictions at Grimsby hospital are being extended due to the number of Covid patients.
People will only be able to visit patients in exceptional circumstances under the rules.
The suspension was introduced on Friday, and hospital bosses made the decision to extend it today, Monday August 23.
They say the suspension will help to protect staff, patients and visitors from coronavirus.
No changes have been made to visiting at the family services building for maternity and children’s service, which remains open as usual.
Grimsby hospital currently has 32 patients at Grimsby, with six of the eight beds in ICU occupied.
Visitors will only be allowed in when a patient is at the end of their life, is suffering from admission-related anxiety or has communication difficulties, learning difficulties or dementia.
A statement from the Northern Lincolnshire and Goole NHS Trust said: “Visiting continues to be paused at Grimsby hospital.
“We’ve taken this decision due to an increase in the number of positive coronavirus patients being cared for, and to minimise the risk of spreading the virus within the hospital. Thank you for your understanding.”
Appointments and operations will also continue unless patients are contacted by the hospital.
No visiting changes have been announced at the trust’s hospital in Scunthorpe, where there are 27 patients with Covid, three who which are in ICU.
Ellie Monkhouse, chief nurse and director of infection prevention and control, said on Friday:
“The change in rules is due to an increase in the number of coronavirus cases at our hospital and to help limit further spread of the virus across our clinical areas.
“The decision has not been taken lightly but is essential in helping to maintain the safety of our patients, visitors and staff.
“I understand for our patients and their named visitor this may cause upset; however, this decision has been made with our patients’ best interests at heart. This is one of many things we are doing to protect our patients and is a temporary measure.
“I would please ask for your help in respecting these changes. In some cases, such as where patients are critically ill or nearing the end of their life, we will of course do our very best to accommodate your visiting needs.
“In some cases, such as where patients are critically ill or nearing the end of their life, we will of course do our very best to accommodate your visiting needs. If you have any questions about the guidance please speak to the relevant ward manager.
“We are sorry for any inconvenience and would like to thank you for your co-operation and support in limiting the spread of coronavirus. We will monitor these arrangements on a regular basis.”