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Women’s and Children’s Hospital
Acknowledgement
The Women's and Children's Hospital is located on the traditional lands for the Kaurna people, and we respect their spiritual relationship with their Country. We also acknowledge that the Kaurna people are the custodians of the Adelaide region, and that their cultural and heritage beliefs are still as important to the living Kaurna people today.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should be aware that this website may contain images, voices and names of people who have passed away.

COVID-19 Visitor Guidelines Update

COVID 1
Posted 9 Dec 2021

The Women’s and Children’s Hospital has implemented additional visitor restrictions as part of our ongoing response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

At the Women’s and Children’s Hospital (WCH), we acknowledge the vulnerable nature of many of our consumers and have sought an exemption to a number of the mandates that apply to adult hospitals.

Chief Executive Office, Lindsey Gough, said the guidelines for our visitors are aimed at reducing foot traffic within the WCH and continuing our focus on good infection control practices.

“As a healthcare facility that supports some of South Australia’s most vulnerable children and women at a pivotal time in their lives, it’s important that we balance their needs with the need to protect our staff and community from COVID-19,” Ms Gough said.

“We know that simple techniques such as washing hands, socially distancing and wearing masks go a long way to slowing the spread of COVID-19 in the community

“Limiting the number of visitors to our hospital, is a further protection measure helps ensure we can effectively maintain these measures.

“In addition, all staff, volunteers and contractors are double vaccinated, adding further protection”

At this time, the WCH, will not be requesting any additional testing or infection control processes for unvaccinated visitors.

We understand that these visitor limits may be difficult for families, particularly those with children who have complex needs.

Consumers are encouraged to discuss their personal circumstances with their care team who can provide advice on alternative options for appointments, such as telehealth, or request additional support on your behalf.

Advanced Nursing and Midwifery Director, Women’s and Babies Division, Lee Davies, said the restrictions can be particularly tough on those about to give birth.

“The pandemic has been particularly tough on new mothers who have had birth plans changed and may not be able to have siblings visit their new brother or sister,” Ms Davies said.

“I want all our parents to know that we have fantastic, highly skilled nurses, midwives and doctors on staff who will support you through your birth journey and beyond. We’re here to look after you.”

The new visitor guidelines for the Women’s and Children’s Hospital apply from Wednesday 8 December, and can be found on this page.