Skip to main content Skip to accessibility
This website is not compatible with your web browser. You should install a newer browser. If you live in Jersey and need help upgrading call the States of Jersey web team on 440099.
Government of Jerseygov.je

Information and public services for the Island of Jersey

L'înformâtion et les sèrvices publyis pouor I'Île dé Jèrri

Surgery guidelines for patients

20 July 2020

Patients receiving surgery at the General Hospital will need to follow COVID-19 safety guidance including being swab tested and following a period of self isolation after their test.

With elective surgery resuming, new guidance requires patients to receive a test for COVID-19 at the Overdale swabbing clinic, five days before their operation.

Following the swab test, the patient will then need to self isolate at home until the day of their operation, regardless of the result. Members of the patient’s household do not need to isolate but must follow the latest public health guidance.  

Medical Director, Patrick Armstrong said: “We are pleased to be able to offer elective surgeries again for those patients who have been waiting for their appointments, but it is important we begin procedures with a high level of safety measures in place to reduce the risk of infection from COVID-19. It is vital patients follow these measures to protect themselves, hospital staff and families.”

If the patient is a child, parents are asked to nominate a parent or guardian to accompany the child on the day of surgery and both will be swabbed and need to isolate.

Isolation guidelines for patients include:

  • Do not go to work, school or public areas
  • Do not use public transport or taxis
  • Do not go outside in public space for exercise
  • Do not go out to shops
  • Do not have house visitors
  • Where possible, do not share bathrooms or kitchens

Patients isolating must:

  • Maintain 1m physical distancing on the journey to hospital
  • Wear a mask covering nose and mouth
  • Regularly wash hands
  • Keep touch points clean within the home

Back to top
rating button