Face mask?

[wobblypat]

I am in the shielded category of the population and have been called into my local GP for a blood test. My husband can take me, do I need to wear a face mask?

[chsskg]

I was called into my local surgery for a blood test last week. I was met outside by the nurse who was wearing a mask. She had sanitised hands, gave me a mask and asked me to step inside and wash my hands. My blood was taken and I left and removed my mask outside. I felt I was dealt with safely and saw no other people. Hope this helps.

[KirstyW1999]

We have been adviced bt txt message to wear a mask scarf or similar when visiting practice for an appointment. They have a shortage of masks.

[Mooka]

I’m the same as Kirstyw1999 I’ve received a text to say that I must wear a face covering if I go to the surgery. I think if you haven’t got a mask a scarf etc will do. I hope your tests go okay.

[Lone-wolf]

As I understand it, the wearing a face mask is to protect others when in closed crowded places although the wearing of one does give you some protection. Advice from Australia in regards the washing of hands is that you should wash your hands thoroughly then apply an anti-bacterial gel.

[May7]

My surgery called me in for my regular blood tests last month, and the nurse was fully kitted out in ppe. Also I was met at the door by a member of staff in a mask who was checking that only patients with appointments were let in. Hand sanitisers were everywhere. I was not required to wear a mask myself, nor was I advised to by my consultant, but she did advise me to remove all my clothes and put them in the wash as soon as I got home, because of my vulnerability. My husband has been asked to have some blood tests and Bp done soon, without any instructions about masks etc., but he isn't clinically vulnerable. From what others have said here, it appears that different GP surgeries have different rules. To be sure of what to do at yours, I would ring them and ask.

[Flowers2020]

Hi, I had to go gp for blood test last week and they provided a face mask and apron for every patient who entered the surgery. I would suggest to wear face mask to protect yourself and others.

[AndrewT]

Dear wobblypat,

I'm Extremely Surprised that you have been called in! Even my Hospital Consultant, has advised ME 'To Stay In'. I would, at the Very Least, 'Question' this appointment. After all 'Shielding' IS just that.....

IF, and it's a big 'if', your Doctor really does Want/ Need you to attend, then I'd ask Him/ Her for advice.

Sorry I can't Tell You, much more wobblypat.

AndrewT

[chsskg in reply to AndrewT]

That was my view too, Andrew and I phoned surgery first to question it (trying hard not to sound like "don't you know who I am") I was told that they would not be able to prescribe my meds without the test that was due.

[panda2]

If you really HAVE to get this blood test, definitely wear a mask and take every precaution with hands. I am also shielding and have been told that any bloods will be consultant led. If I don't hear from the consultant, then all routine bloods are cancelled, since the letter says we are not to attend GP appts.

However, I did have to do a drive through injection earlier this week. Even though the nurse knew I was shielding and said she would be in an 'extent of PPE', she was NOT wearing a mask or gloves! I was taken aback and felt quite concerned as she kept nervously talking/spitting to me... I could not move back in the car. I was so very grateful for my mask. I used a spray disinfectant on clothing and the car after too. I know I will be worried for the next 11 days!

If you are required to go, do everything you can to protect yourself. And then some... Good luck!

Panda

[Nell]

Hi. I have similar concerns. I have been asked by my GP to go to the Sheffield Arena drive through Coronavirus testing hub to have my blood tests done and am not sure it’s a good idea. Anyone done this ? Do you think it’s safe ?

Thanks

Nell

[Chipper03]

I too have to have my regular blood tests done, because I take azathioprine. They have delayed it by 3 weeks, so it’s 11 weeks now instead of the usual 8. Consultant phoned last week and confirmed I must have it done, and said wear face mask and disposable gloves. GP surgery have made my appointment early in the day to minimise risk. I go next Tuesday, feeling nervous, it all feels so strange and I’ve not driven for 10 weeks. A friend suggested practicing wearing the mask which is a good idea, mine is tricky to wear with my glasses so I’m glad to be a bit more used to it. Thanks for the suggestion about washing clothes afterwards, I’ll definitely do that too. Good luck!

[NertGert]

I wear a mask all the time. I found a very useful article here trendebut.com/blog/making-u... about KN95 brand masks, which are one of personal protective equipment that we can use to protect against particles present in the air. This includes the SARS-COV-2 virus, which is responsible for the new coronavirus, which currently closes the world. We also regularly use hand sanitizer and wear gloves.