Hospital changes visiting times

Visiting times have been changed at Northampton General Hospital to improve care and safety for patients and medical staff.

Daytime rest periods for patients will be free from visitors, allowing also for undisturbed meals and drug rounds.

Nursing managers hope the changes will also lead to more effective cleaning and infection control.

Jane Bradley, head of nursing, said the new times, 1430-1600 BST and 1830-2030 BST, were supported by patients.

Ward managers and nurses accepted that for "personal and compassionate reasons" exceptions could be made, she added.

"We are happy to discuss the need for flexible or extended visiting with patients and their family on an individual basis," said Mrs Bradley.