Updates to our mask wearing policy at GOSH

23 May 2023, 7 a.m.

From 23 May we will no longer require patients, families or staff to wear facemasks in the majority of areas within the hospital.

This is in line with current national guidelines and is a similar approach taken at many other hospitals.

There are some specific areas of the hospital or types of procedures that will still require staff to wear masks at all times. This includes in theatres, when aerosol generating procedures are taking place or when patients are under specific respiratory precautions.

At all times, if you wish for a member of staff to wear a mask when treating you or your child you can ask them to do so. We will still provide fluid resistant surgical masks for families and staff who would like to wear them.

We have taken this decision based on the currently available evidence on COVID-19 and we have also considered that lots of our families visit other hospitals that have already relaxed masking rules.

Staff will closely monitor all patients for any symptoms of COVID-19 or other respiratory illnesses and take precautions as necessary. This will include the wearing of personal protective equipment and testing.

If you have any questions or concerns about your child’s care or an upcoming admission or appointment, please contact our Patient Advice and Liason Service (PALs).

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