After a public allegation claiming newborn babies were being ‘taken’ from COVID-positive mothers at Mackay Base Hospital, the health service issued a statement refuting the claim and to make their birthing policy clear surrounding the pandemic.
“Our policy has always been that new mothers and their babies are able to room together in the COVID-19 ward at Mackay Base Hospital if both are well,” the statement read.
“If the baby needs to go to the Special Care Nursery they will be cared for there while their mother remains in the COVID-19 ward or in the Intensive Care Unit.
“It is important that premature and other unwell newborn babies in the Special Care Nursery are not exposed to a visitor who is COVID-19 positive.”
Mackay HHS has undertaken planning to care for women with confirmed or suspected COVID-19. The hospital said these plans will continue to be updated in line with the latest advice from the Chief Health Officer.
“Our hospitals are well prepared to respond to COVID-19 to ensure they are a safe place for you and your baby.
“Staff are vigilant with cleaning, handwashing and using protective equipment to keep you and your baby safe.”
Women with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 are able to birth at Mackay Base Hospital in dedicated rooms in Labour Ward.
“This is the case as long as there are no other factors that would normally result in transfer to a tertiary hospital. Staff will use COVID-19 precautions until results are returned.
“After birthing you will be cared for in a dedicated COVID-19 ward at Mackay Base Hospital. If babies are well and not requiring care in the Special Care Nursery they will remain with their mothers,” the policy reads.
“Your mode of birth will not be influenced by COVID-19 unless urgent delivery is indicated. Your choice of feeding is supported and breastfeeding is still recommended even if you have COVID-19.”
The hospital also said that unvaccinated partners were able to be support people.
“While we can allow an unvaccinated partner to attend (provided they follow all staff instructions regarding Personal Protective Equipment), we do require that any secondary support person be vaccinated, to limit risk to our staff.”
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