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Living with COVID-19 Bulletin: Friday 1 July

July 1, 2022

1. New: Rise of COVID-19 cases sees return of the mask to all wards 

Following a risk assessment, we are with immediate effect, reintroducing the wearing of fluid-resistant surgical masks (FRSMs) in all inpatient wards (acute and community). This applies to all staff entering and working on our wards, visitors and patients who are able to tolerate mask wearing. This decision has been taken as a result of increasing numbers of patients testing positive in our hospitals, community cases and staff absences due to COVID-19.

It has been put in place to keep our patients, visitors and colleagues safe and to reduce the risk of  transmission.

We continue to monitor the situation and this may mean that we extend mask wearing to other areas, for example outpatient clinics, but we will inform you if this decision is to be taken.

FRSMs must be worn in the following areas:

  • Inpatient wards – acute and community.
  • Emergency Department.
  • Theatres.
  • Maternity.
  • Home visits.

You are reminded that you are welcome to wear a mask in any areas if you choose to do so.

2. New: Wearing face masks in community settings

COVID restrictions have been relaxed recently in line with the government’s Living with COVID plan. However, we would like to remind colleagues of the infection prevention control guidelines in community settings.

Face masks should be used by staff when providing care in people’s homes, irrespective of whether the person being cared for is known or suspected to have COVID-19. This helps to prevent infection spreading.

Patients may wish to wear a mask at home while receiving treatment, but this is not mandated.

Face masks should be changed and disposed of appropriately by colleagues:

  • If they become moist.
  • If they become damaged.
  • If they become uncomfortable to wear.
  • If they become contaminated or soiled.
  • At break times.
  • After four hours of continuous wear.
  • Between different people’s homes.