Maternity hospitals restrict visitors

[Posted: Wed 04/11/2009 by Joanne McCarthy]

Three maternity hospitals in Dublin are introducing a restricted visiting policy in order to minimise the swine flu risk.

The Coombe Women and Infants University Hospital, the Rotunda hospital and the National Maternity Hospital at Holles Street will enforce the policy from 8am on Friday, November 6.

Visiting will be restricted to the partner or one nominated visitor for expectant/new mothers and gynaecology in-patients and the parents/guardians of infants in the paediatric unit. No more than one person will be permitted to accompany any adult patient attending the outpatient department.

In addition, children should not be brought into the hospital as visitors. Visitors with flu-like symptoms, or those who have had recent household contact with individuals with flu, are asked not to visit the hospitals.

The hospitals have emphasised the increased importance of a reduced length of stay in hospital with early discharge after delivery and gynaecology surgery.

The hospitals have reminded women who are between 14 weeks pregnant and six weeks after delivery to avail of the swine flu vaccination.

Meanwhile, visitors have also been restricted in Cork University Hospital (CUH) and Cork University Maternity Hospital (CUMH) in an effort to prevent the spread of swine flu.

Members of the public have been asked not to visit these hospitals unless it is absolutely necessary. Visiting times are restricted to 7.30pm to 8.30pm in both CUH and CUMH. One visitor is allowed per patient and no children are allowed to visit.

Visitors have been asked to respect these restricted visiting times. They have been advised that they must use the alcohol gel supplied as they enter and leave the hospital.

alex1340  Posted: 06/11/2009 10:47

I've have been at Cork University Maternity Hospital (CUHM) yesterday and I was very disappointed because I couldn't assist my wife at the first scan !!!!! The access should be restricted but not for husbands !! I dont want miss next visit due this restrictions it's my baby as well come on!! I would like to talk to the doctor/midwife ask some question It's my first baby so I think that I have rights to talk to them as well and my wife needs my presence.  My question is does anyone know if there is an exception or what the policies says about the husband's role in this situation I couldnt find it . Any help appreciated. Regards Alex

eileen1211  Posted: 10/11/2009 09:30

I feel your frustration this is my first baby and I am very angry that my husband is not allowed in with me for my first scan. I am very nervious and don't think it is fair as it is his baby aswell. The partners are allowed into the hospital so why not into the scan, It is so unfair.

purple  Posted: 10/11/2009 19:04

hi this is disgraceful, husbands should be at there wifes side when they have this done, what the hell are the doctors thinking,

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