The QEH wishes for members of the public to be aware of the updated mask-wearing…
COVID-19 : VISITING THE ACCIDENT AND EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT
The staff of the AED stands ready to serve you. However, to ensure the safety and well-being of patients receiving care in the Accident and Emergency Department (AED) and the Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) at large, persons with cold or flu like symptoms are asked to refrain from visiting. Additionally, please note that in response to the Government of Barbados’ escalation to Stage One of the COVID-19 National Response Plan, the AED will be implementing the following precautionary measures.
- On arrival at the AED, all patients will be asked routine questions about their recent medical history and some patients may be required to wear a face mask.
- In accordance with international guidelines, asthma patients will be treated with inhalers and spacers and the use of the nebulizer will be reserved for patients experiencing severe asthma attacks. Patients are reminded to bring their personal inhalers and spacers when visiting the AED. Additionally, patients experiencing mild to moderate asthma attacks, slight wheezing, and shortness of breath, and or persistent coughs, are asked to visit their nearest polyclinic and to use their asthma action plan. Further, asthmatics are strongly advised to continue the use of their prescribed maintenance medication as directed by their physician as doing so can prevent an asthma attack.
- Patients seeking emergency care at the AED are also asked to note that the following visitation restrictions will be in effect. Only minors under the age of 18 and the elderly who are considered to be at high risk of falling, may be disoriented, and those requiring assistance with regular daily activities such as walking, using the bathroom and eating, will be allowed one visitor. For all other AED patients, once found to be coherent, visiting has been discontinued.
- In instances where patients have been admitted, but continue to be housed in the AED or the Short Stay Unit, visiting will be facilitated between 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. in accordance with the QEH’s reduced visiting hours. Persons are also prohibited from congregating outside of the AED.
The above rules will be strongly enforced.
The public is reminded that though stringent, the implementation of these precautionary measures is to ensure the continued safety of our patients and staff.
The Board of Management thanks you for your understanding, and apologizes for any inconvenience caused.