Coronavirus second wave: Ten ways to help Queen Alexandra Hospital
Here are QA’s guidelines to keeping hospital use to a minimum through lockdown and the second wave of coronavirus.
1 From Thursday, obey the government's new restrictions on staying at home unless for a specific reason.
2 Remember your NHS remains OPEN – the NHS is still here to see you safely and you are encouraged to seek medical care if you need it and attend medical appointments during lockdown. The Emergency Department at Queen Alexandra Hospital remains open and anyone experiencing a life-threatening emergency should still attend or call 999.
3 If you need urgent care but it is not a life-threatening emergency, contact 111 first. An advisor will direct you to the right service for your needs. Contacting 111 first helps ensure patients receive the right care in the right place at the right time and helps maintain social distancing in the Emergency Department at Queen Alexandra Hospital. The ED remains open and anyone experiencing a life-threatening emergency should still attend or call 999.
4 Get your flu jab – if you’re eligible for the free flu vaccine contact your GP or pharmacy to make an appointment
5 If you have a minor injury: contact 111 first or use one of the following facilities:
St Mary’s Urgent Treatment Centre, Portsmouth (open from 7.30am to 10pm weekdays and 8am to 10pm weekends)
Petersfield Community Hospital Minor Injuries Unit (open 8am to 5:45pm daily)
Gosport War Memorial Hospital Minor Injuries Unit (open 8am to midnight daily)
6 If you have a minor illness: phone your GP practice or use the econsult function on your practice website. If you’re not sure, contact NHS 111
7 Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitiser
8 Wear a face covering or mask when visiting hospital and in essential public indoor spaces remaining open during national restrictions (ie supermarkets)
9 Stay safe outside your home – continue to follow national guidance on social distancing
10 Get tested. if you have Covid-19 symptoms (high temperature, new, continuous cough, loss or change to sense of taste or smell), self isolate and get tested as soon as possible. Check what to do here. There is a separate testing service for care home residents or staff members who can still get tested even if they do not have symptoms.