Hospital to limit visitor numbers

Altnagelvin Hospital want to limit the number of people visiting each patient at one time.

Altnagelvin Hospital is to introduce a strict new visiting policy which will limit the number of people allowed in to see patients.

The policy which limits bedside visits to two people will start in September.

The Western Trust said this was necessary to improve patient care and help reduce the risk of infections.

Alan Corry-Finn, Director of Primary Care said: "Patients benefit from visits by family and friends, and the Trust wishes to see this continue."

"However they are in hospital because they are unwell," he added.

"Staff must be able to provide clinical care in a timely manner to patients who need restful times in a quiet environment."

The Western Trust said those visiting Altnagelvin, Erne, Tyrone County, Gransha, Lakeview, Tyrone and Fermanagh or Waterside Hospitals will be asked to respect the new policy.

Visitors will also be asked to wash their hands or use alcohol rub before and after they leave a ward.

Special circumstances will operate on certain wards including maternity, children's and intensive care.