Before your procedure or surgery, you will need to attend a COVID-19 test at our drive through testing facility at the King's Hall complex in Belfast. Our Booking Team will book this for you.
The test will consists of a swab of the tonsils and back of the throat and nasal passages.
Please ensure you wear a face covering when attending this test. If you have to travel you should avoid public transport.
You must continue to self-isolate after this test until your procedure.
If you test positive, we will delay your procedure and you will need to self-isolate in accordance with government guidance – for more information visit: www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/self-isolation-andtreatment/how-long-to-selfisolate
On the day of your hospital procedure or surgery
• Please check your admission letter for details on where to go when you arrive.
• Make sure you use the hand sanitiser as you enter the hospital.
• Please keep on your face covering.
• Make your way to the reception area at the time stated on your letter. Please DO NOT arrive before this.
• You will be greeted by hospital staff who will ask questions relating to COVID-19 symptoms
• If you have a chaperone or carer who has also been self-isolating they can accompany you to the hospital.
• Due to the ongoing pandemic our visiting policy is subject to change. Please check this with your Booking Advisor. If you think you may need a carer with you during your time at Kingsbridge then please discuss this with us before your visit.
Before your operation you will be asked to sign a COVID-19 Risk Consent form. This will provide assurance that you have followed any guidance, specific to you, given by the hospital or your Consultant before your admission.
Staying overnight in hospital
• If you are staying overnight in hospital following your procedure or surgery, please only bring essential items.
• On the ward, all beds are located in individual rooms or pods.
• Our shower and toilet facilities are all en-suite.
• If you feel more comfortable doing so, you can choose to wear a face covering while on the ward, unless you have a medical oxygen mask.
• If at any time you feel anxious make sure you speak to a member of staff.
• Please address any concerns you may have with a member of staff.
When you are ready to go home
• We recommend that a friend, carer or family member collects you from the entrance of the hospital. If you need help to get to the entrance to meet them, one of our nursing staff will assist you.
• Depending on the nature of your procedure and recovery your Consultant may advise you to continue to self-isolate for seven days after leaving hospital. This additional period of self-isolation is a precaution as your immune system will be working hard to help your body to recover from the surgery you have had.
• If you develop symptoms of COVID-19 after discharge, please self isolate at home and contact your GP by phone.
• If you need any further information about your planned procedure or surgery, please ensure you receive this information from your Consultant.
