(CMR) The Health Services Authority (HSA) today said that come Monday maternity patients will be allowed one person to accompany them during the labour process. The news is a welcome relief for soon-to-be mothers, who were previously told that they would have to go through the labour process alone or with assisted virtual companion systems, due to a new hospital policy issued in light of COVID-19.
In a release on Sunday, HSA changed its stance noting that it, “understands the importance of having a partner during the labouring process, and as we improve and augment staffing levels in coordination with the private sector, the temporary restriction on visitors to the Maternity will be lifted effective Monday, April 6.”
According to the HSA, visitors will be limited to one person accompanying a patient during labour. Additional measures have been for these companions who will be required to wear PPE (personal protection equipment), as instructed by the medical staff.
The HSA further revealed that its earlier decision was taken, out of an abundance of caution due to the evolving situation with the COVID-19 virus.
“This was an important, temporary measure in order to keep patients and staff safe. In the interim, a system of virtual companion using video technology was facilitated giving mothers the option to use their device in the labour room,” read the release.
“The HSA acknowledges that having a partner physically present throughout the labouring process provides mothers with the physical and emotional support needed, “added the release.
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