Essential visiting
At times it may be necessary to restrict visiting for short periods of time for specific reasons. For example, if there is an outbreak of an infection such as COVID-19 in a ward it is normal practice to restrict visiting until the outbreak is under control. Even in these circumstances we would expect essential visits to be able to continue where required. Some examples of situations include, when someone is reaching the end of their life, if someone has dementia and needs family support, support for someone with a learning disability, a family member who has informal caring responsibilities, parents with a child in hospital and care relating to childbirth including both ante-natal and post-natal care. These examples are illustrative and are not an exhaustive list. Contact the ward and nurse in charge to discuss your personal circumstances.
Standard visiting
Patients in most areas of Fife hospitals are allowed visits from two people at a time.
If you are visiting please remember to:
- follow the guidance on hand hygiene
- wear the face mask provided
- don't visit if you feel unwell in anyway
Young visitors
Unfortunately, due to current restrictions within the waiting areas, no children will be allowed to accompany parents at Antenatal Clinic / Day-care / Maternity Assessment appointments or within the Delivery suite areas.
Parents own children (siblings of the newborn) will be welcome to visit within the maternity ward area, out with quiet time.
Quiet Time
Quiet Time runs from 230pm until 430pm in our maternity wards.
The two-hour period where lights are dimmed and noise is kept to a minimum. This helps in the developmental care of the newborn and allows mothers to rest.
Only one birth partner will be able to stay during quiet time.
Virtual visiting
Where in-person support is not possible, a patient can be supported by alternatives such as virtual visiting using tablets or mobiles.