Rapid lateral flow testing for Covid-19
Rapid lateral flow tests help to find cases in people who may have no symptoms but are still infectious and can give the virus to others.
The neonatal team strongly advise that all parents attending the unit undertake twice weekly lateral flow testing. Please also ensure you take a photo of your negative test result which you can show on the day.
Getting your rapid lateral flow tests
A free pack of 7 tests per household can be ordered to your home from the gov.uk website (see the ‘start now’ button).
You can also collect up to 2 packs of 7 tests (14 in total) for free from a local pharmacy – please visit the NHS website to find a pharmacy near you.
Alternatively you can visit a local test site for a free rapid lateral flow test or collect 2 packs of 7 tests from a local test site.
Could this guidance change?
Restrictions are subject to change if national guidance changes or the prevalence of Covid-19 changes locally.
Due to the unpredictable nature of the neonatal care, if the unit becomes busy and social distancing becomes a challenge, parents may be asked to visit one at a time. This will be at the discretion of the person in charge.
Zero tolerance to abuse
We ask you to adhere to these rules which are in place to keep everyone safe and be respectful to our staff – we have a zero tolerance policy towards abusive and intimidating behaviour. Thank you.
Personal belongings and parking
Coin-operated lockers are provided for items to be stored during your visit.
Parking is available in the hospital multi-storey car park. Parents of babies admitted to the unit are able to park at reduced cost. Please discuss parking with the nurse caring for your baby.
Further questions?
If you have further questions about this guidance, please speak with a member of the neonatal team.
Ward rounds
Ward rounds are led by the consultants and carried out on a daily basis, in the mornings and sometimes in the evenings. During ward rounds consultants are happy to meet parents to discuss any queries or concerns.
Security
The area is monitored by CCTV.
There are three security doors you will need to go through before entering our unit. If our staff are busy attending to a baby there may be a delay in answering the door bell. Everyone must take responsibility to ensure the door is closed after them. Please do not let unauthorised visitors follow you into the unit.
ITU and HD rooms
The nurse caring for your baby will provide information and support to help you become comfortable when you visit. Your baby may be attached to monitors and equipment and your nurse will be able to explain what it is for.
Special care nurseries
There are three special care nurseries. Babies who do not require intensive or high-dependency care are nursed in these rooms until discharged home or transferred to the postnatal ward or transitional care.
Transitional care
We provide transitional care which is situated on the postnatal ward. Transitional care is for babies who need some medical treatment, but do not require admission to the special care nurseries.
Outreach
We provide an outreach service, the aim of which is help with earlier discharge home from the unit. Your baby will be visited at home on a regular basis by the neonatal outreach sisters once discharged from the hospital. This option will be discussed fully – and planned – with you.
Support group
The Lister Neonatal Unit Families Group is run by parents whose babies have needed to spend time in special care after their birth.
You request to join their private Lister Neonatal Unit Families Group Facebook group where families can share their experiences and ask questions.
