In today’s update:
- SARS CoV2/COVID-19, Flu and RSV Testing
- Face masks recommended in all clinical (patient facing) areas
- Emergency Department and back corridor
SARS CoV2/COVID-19, Flu and RSV Testing
From 26 July 2022, the automatic extended PCR testing for influenza A/B and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) in addition to SARS CoV-2/COVID-19 for patients with symptoms of COVID-19/influenza/respiratory viral illness that has been in place over the winter/recent months will be discontinued due to the low prevalence of influenza/RSV. Symptomatic patients will be tested for SARS CoV2/COVID-19 only with the exception of ICU and haematology patients who will still be tested automatically for an extended virus panel.
If testing for additional respiratory viruses is clinically indicated on any other patients, please discuss with the Microbiology Laboratory on extension 1837 on a case by case basis.
Detailed guidance on testing for COVID-19 is available at https://covid.sthk.nhs.uk/current-case-definition-and-assessment-flow-chart/.
Face masks recommended in all clinical areas
Due to the rapid rise in COVID cases in the local community, it is recommended that staff and visitors wear a surgical face mask at all times in clinical (patient-facing) areas. This includes all wards, outpatient departments, the Urgent Treatment Centre and the Emergency Department.
Signage across our buildings has been changed to reflect this advice.
You should also ensure you follow appropriate hand hygiene procedures.
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Emergency Department and back corridor
Can all staff please be reminded that the Emergency Department and the back corridor on Level 0, should not be used as a cut through for staff or visitors entering or exiting the building.
This is for the safety of both staff and visitors, and for the dignity of patients being treated in the department.