Hospital visitor limits during Alert Level 2
At Alert Level 2 our hospitals are open but things may look a little different as we work to keep each other safe:
- it is a requirement for staff, patients and visitors to wear masks in NMH healthcare settings
- physical distancing of 2 meters is in place
- record keeping is mandatory at healthcare facilities. Staff, patients and visitors need to scan QR codes, sign-in or keep a record of their attendance
- hospital attendees will be asked COVID-19 screening questions on entry
- the hospital cafe is open for onsite staff only.
To minimise the risk of COVID-19 transmission visitor restrictions are in place:
- In the inpatient setting (when people stay overnight) this means:
- visiting hours are strictly 2.30pm-8pm
- three visitors may be nominated by the patient to visit
- each nominated visitor may attend for one visit per day
- only one visitor may attend at a time
- children under the age of 16 are restricted from visiting
- exceptions to the above (eg, for compassionate grounds) require approval by the manager in charge. To request an exception, please phone the main line on 03 546 1800 and ask to be put through to the ward you want to visit.
- In high-risk areas (eg emergency departments, maternity and intensive care units) this means:
- one support person may visit for one visit per day
- to request an exception t this rule, please phone the main line on 03 546 1800 and ask to be put through to the ward you want to visit.
- In the outpatient setting (where people attend an appointment) this means:
- no support person may accompany the patient
- exceptions to this require approval by the manager in charge. To request an exception, please phone the main line on 03 546 1800 and ask to speak with the charge nurse manager for outpatients.
For more information about our COVID-19 response, see the COVID-19 Testing, vaccination & resources page.