Hospitals in NHS Lothian to allow visitors for first time since start of lockdown

Patients in hospitals in NHS Lothian are now able to see a loved-one for the first time since lockdown, as visits are re-introduced tomorrow.

From Monday, July 13, patients in the region’s hospital wards with no Covid-19 outbreaks will be able to spend time with one designated visitor.

Professor Alex McMahon, Director of Nursing, NHS Lothian, thanked patients and relatives for their understanding, adding: “The staff on our wards have worked hard during this pandemic to ensure that as much communication and contact with patients and relatives could be maintained.

“They, like the rest of our society, recognise that there is nothing more special than to physically see your loved one in person.

“We still need to be really careful and we have some new guidelines in place which will be absolutely vital to minimise the risk of infection, but I know relatives and friends will support us and work with us.

“We would like to ask everyone to continue to observe all current Covid-19 guidance and it is absolutely critical that you do not visit if you have Covid-19 symptoms or are self-isolating.”

NHS Lothian patients are currently allowed “essential visitors” in specific circumstances, including when they are receiving end-of-life care, are children, during childbirth, and for those suffering with mental health issues.

From tomorrow, the new “designated visitors” will be asked to arrange trips to the hospital in advance, wear face coverings and any necessary PPE, maintain physical distancing while inside, and limit their movements in other parts of the hospital.

But hospitals where there is a Covid-19 outbreak or ones that are treating coronavirus patients will still not admit designated visitors.

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