Hospital visitors asked to take a lateral flow test
NHS Grampian are asking the public to 'flow before you go'
Last updated 16th Dec 2021
People visiting relatives or friends in hospital are being asked to take a lateral flow test before make the trip.
NHS Grampian is continuing to support up to two visitors, per patient, per day at hospitals in the region.
Visits must be arranged with ward staff in advance. Depending on the needs of patients on individual wards and the layout of the ward, visitors may be asked to attend one at a time.
Lyn Pirie is the Senior Nurse Lead for Person Centred Visiting. She said:
“We know how important it is for people in hospital to maintain contact with loved ones and we will support that wherever possible. We need the general public to work with us and take an LFD test before every visit. If it is positive, they must start self-isolation and book a PCR test.
“While COVID-19 is obviously a significant concern, we need visitors to remember other illnesses are out there. If they are suffering from colds, ‘flu, or norovirus, the last thing they should do is visit someone in hospital, as their immune systems will be weaker.
“We know there will be emergencies where it is neither possible nor practical to take a test before coming into hospital. We are not making a negative test result a condition of entry for hospital visitors. What we are doing is urging the public, in the strongest possible terms, to pick up a test kit and carry out a test before every hospital visit.”
Hospital visitors are also asked to use a Fluid Repellent Surgical Mask instead of a fabric face covering (unless exempt). These masks are available at every hospital entrance.
They are single use and should be disposed of if they become dirty or wet, or once a visitor has left the hospital building.
Hand hygiene should be undertaken regularly during hospital visits, using water and soap or hand gel as appropriate. Visitors should not touch any medical equipment or sit on beds.
Virtual visiting remains on offer across NHS Grampian hospitals. Anyone who wishes to explore this option should have a conversation directly with ward staff.