We have updated our guidance around the wearing of face masks in our hospitals.
From today (Thursday 9 June), visitors to the University Hospital of North Tees or the University Hospital of Hartlepool will not be required to wear a face mask.
As of today, visitors will not be required to wear a face mask – with the exception of visiting a high-risk area.
Lindsey Robertson, chief nurse
Lindsey continued: “This is following updated national guidance from NHS England and Improvement this week. It is in light of the continued low numbers of COVID-19 in our hospitals and in the community.”
High risk areas where face masks will still be required include:
- The emergency care department
- Urgent care
- Ward 24
- Ward 25
- Critical care
- Special care baby unit
- Chemotherapy day unit
- Ward 38
This also applies when visiting patients with COVID-19.
Visiting rules
We are still asking visitors (up to two per patient) to book an appointment by calling the ward in advance. However, we are increasing the number of booking slots on offer.
Lindsey added: “We value the importance of visiting on the recovery of patients. So we are pleased to be in a position to be able to relax some of these restrictions.
“We ask visitors in our hospitals to continue to follow instructions from the clinical area you are visiting. Please wash your hands and use hand gel regularly and avoid visiting if you are feeling unwell.”
To book a visiting slot, please call the Trust on 01642 617617 and ask for the ward your loved one is staying on.