THE maternity ward at Barnsley Hospital has stressed its visiting regulations for new parents across the borough after multiple enquiries from loved ones.
The Barnsley Hospital e-Midwife issued a statement reminding people of the current visiting guidelines amidst the coronavirus outbreak.
The regulations enforce that a nominated birthing partner will be able to visit the mum and baby for one hour a day by appointment only.
In the statement, the hospital reiterates the main priority is the safety of patients.
“This is in order to control the number of visitors on the ward and maintain social distancing and ensuring the safety of all mothers, babies and staff.
“This relates strictly to birth partners only, who accompanied during labour, no siblings will be permitted on the ward.
“Women can book their visiting appointment with the midwife on the ward.
“We are only able to have one visitor in the four to six bedded bays and no more than four visitors on the ward at any given time.
“On the day a woman is being discharged, there will be no visiting slot allocated for that day.”
The mum-to-be is allowed a birthing partner during labour but they must wear a mask during their visit.
“The nominated birth partner must wear a mask as they enter the hospital grounds and throughout their visit on the ward in line with government guidance.
“Birth partner temperatures will be taken on arrival of their allocated slot, if 37.8 or above they will not be given access to the ward and will be advised accordingly.
“The nominated birth partner must stay in the mother’s allotted bed space and must leave after their allotted time to allow for the next appointment blocks.”
