Call for a review of Covid-19 protocols in hospital’s EPU

The family of a local woman who had to attend MRH Mullingar on her own after she suffered a miscarriage has called on the HSE to review its Covid-19 protocols.

The north Westmeath woman was referred to the Early Pregnancy Unit in the hospital after she suffered a bleed at home. Due to the hospital's Covid-19 restrictions she was forced to attend the unit by herself where she received confirmation that she had suffered a miscarriage.

Speaking to the Westmeath Examiner, the woman's sister said the hospital's Covid-19 protocols should make provision for people who are likely to receive traumatic news.

“She was alone when she was told this news. Her partner had to wait outside in the car. She was put into a room on her own to digest such heartbreaking news. She then had to pass it on to her partner. I don't think my sister will ever recover from the trauma she experienced. She was treated like a dog. It was horrendous. It can't be allowed to continue.

“Why can we all go in a big group for pints and food but two people in an emergency situation can't attend at a hospital with full PPE?” she asked.

When contacted by the Westmeath Examiner, the HSE said that the current Covid-19 policy regarding restrictions in the Maternity Unit in Regional Hospital Mullingar is determined by the Women’s Health Unit.

“There is restricted access to the Early Pregnancy Unit. This was introduced to help protect staff and vulnerable women in the early stages of their pregnancy against the pandemic. There are midwives, doctors and support staff in the unit, at all times, to closely support women with all their care needs.

“Birth partners may attend the labour ward when their partner is in active labour. Birth partners of mothers who have a planned Caesarean section may attend the birth of their newborn baby in theatre. Partners are asked to wear full PPE when attending the birth of their baby which will be supplied by the hospital.”