We are now asking staff to follow national guidelines which can be found HERE in full.
Updated Guidelines for Healthcare Staff Regarding COVID-19
What’s Changed:
- Testing for COVID-19: Most healthcare staff with respiratory symptoms are no longer required to take a COVID-19 test.
- Return to Work: No need for two negative Lateral Flow Device (LFD) tests before returning to work if you tested positive for COVID-19.
- Special Protocols for Certain Roles: Staff caring for severely immunosuppressed patients have specific testing and return-to-work protocols.
Who This Applies To:
These guidelines are intended for all staff and managers in NHS and NHS-commissioned services.
Symptoms of Respiratory Infection Include:
- Cough, fever, loss or change in taste/smell, shortness of breath, unexplained tiredness, muscle aches, lack of appetite, persistent headache, sore throat, diarrhoea, and nausea.
Detailed Guidance:
Staff Not Caring for Severely Immunosuppressed Patients:
- If Symptomatic: Stay at home and avoid contact with others. No mandatory COVID-19 test is required.
- Positive Test: Follow general public guidance for positive COVID-19 cases.
- Returning to Work: Your line manager will perform a risk assessment.
- Infection Control: Continue following all relevant precautions, including PPE use.
Staff Caring for Severely Immunosuppressed Patients:
- If Symptomatic: Take an LFD test as per locally decided protocols.
- Negative LFD Test: You may return to work if well enough and without a high temperature.
- Positive LFD Test: Do not attend work for at least 5 days. A risk assessment will be done upon your return.
Staff Who Are Household Contacts of a Confirmed Case:
- Discuss Risks: Consult your line manager to minimise risk of transmission.
- Symptoms Within 10 Days: Follow advice for staff with symptoms of respiratory infection.
Note on Routine Asymptomatic Testing:
- Only continue where advised by medical directors, nursing directors, or infection prevention and control teams.