Publish date: 24 February 2022
There are no immediate changes to IPC requirements. This includes the requirement for staff, patients and visitors to wear a mask/face covering in healthcare settings. (See updated Trust guidance below for non-patient areas). The consistent application of IPC measures, alongside the roll out of the vaccine programme and staff and patient testing, remains the most effective defence against the entry and spread of COVID-19 in healthcare settings.
Changes to mask wearing guidance for non-clinical colleagues
These changes apply only in areas that are not accessible to patients, service users or public, so applicable in office areas, in the main, that are used by non-clinical staff:
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Mask removal is only permitted in non-patient facing areas
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Masks must be worn in any clinical setting, that is, where patients are present, including wards and clinics at all times
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Masks may be removed in office buildings including V7, LIP, Hollins Park House or remote off ward administration office areas, providing these areas cannot be accessed by patients or public and are largely used by non-clinical staff
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Staff must maintain two meters safe distancing when seated if not wearing masks
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Staff must continue to undertake twice weekly lateral flow device tests if removing masks
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Staff must be diligent with hand hygiene and ensure work spaces are cleaned in between each use
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Office areas will continue to supply masks for any staff who wish to continue to wear them.
In Mersey Care’s clinical areas and practice, contrary to the Government's plan, there will be no changes to current Mersey Care guidance on the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), lateral flow testing or self-isolation. All of which can be viewed on YourSpace here.
