Sligo University Hospital reminds the public that there is no visiting permitted at the hospital other than in exceptional circumstances

Sligo University Hospital would like to remind the public that visiting is still not permitted at the hospital, other than in exceptional circumstances.

Grainne McCann, Hospital Manager said, “We are again asking the public not to visit patients in Sligo University Hospital other than end of life situations and other exceptional circumstances as agreed with the ward manager in advance of visiting. To arrange a visit, families should telephone the hospital and request to speak to the relevant ward manager who will decide if a visit can be facilitated without compromising the welfare of the patients on the ward. Children in particular should not visit patients in hospital.

“We also want to remind parents of paediatric patients that only one parent/guardian can remain with their child at any time. This is to minimise the risk of infection among our paediatric patients and staff.

“To stay in touch, family and friends of patients may email letters or messages to SUHpatientletters@hse.ie and these will be printed, placed in an envelope and delivered sealed to the patient’s bedside.

“We appreciate how difficult it is for our patients and their families not to be able to visit, but it is a very important infection control measure which helps us protect our patients and our staff.”

All of the hospitals in the Saolta Group have similar arrangements in place. A spokesperson for the Saolta Group stated, “We recognise that the visiting restrictions may be challenging for patients and their families, however, our priority must be to protect the patients in our hospitals who are vulnerable to infection.

“We also remind our patients and their families that those who are attending outpatient appointments should attend on their own except where patients need the support or assistance of a family member or a carer.

“We would like to thank members of the public for their co-operation.”