The scan rooms are very small and we can only accommodate one accompanying adult to your entire scan, and there are valid reasons for this change.
Prior to the Covid pandemic, Sonographers have allowed people to ‘swap’ places with the adults but this is very disruptive to the Sonographers concentration and something could be missed during your baby’s examination. Generally people are not able to interpret scan images and only recognise the baby’s profile, which your family can see in the photograph that we will offer you.
Also in the past we have allowed other family members to come and see the end of the scan, however this is no longer possible as the waiting area is small and several other clinics also run at the same time in this department including Gynaecology and Oncology (women with cancer) and these women have had to stand in busy clinics due to the sheer number of scan supporters taking seats.
When there are several people in the scan room, they tend to start having conversations, which the Sonographer finds it difficult to give you any information during the scan including the possibly of giving bad news.
Therefore only one adult is permitted in the scan room for the entire scan, we must remind you that this is a medical procedure and no recording of this is permitted. Mobile phones must be turned off prior to entering the scan room.
Although we want you to enjoy your scan and we recognise that your family and friends want to support you, the scans we offer here are clinical examinations of your baby; should you wish additional family and friends to attend a scan there are several private scan options available outside of the NHS.
Regarding the gender of the baby, the Sonographer can give you a verbal opinion on the gender of your baby if it is possible to see this; however it is important to be aware that this is an opinion only and is never absolutely certain.
Translators and other adults essential to your understanding are the exception to this and will, of course, continue to be accommodated.
Confidentiality
‘The Trust’s vision is to keep your information safe in our hands.’ We promise to use your information fairly and legally, and in-line with local and national policies. You have a right to understand how your information is used and you can request a copy of the information we hold about you at any time.
For further information on confidentiality contact the Information Governance Team:
Information.Governance@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 603961
Feedback
We appreciate and encourage feedback, which helps us to improve our services. If you have any comments, compliments or concerns to make about your care, please contact the Patient, Advice & Liaison Service:
pals@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 814008 or 01946 523818
If you would like to raise a complaint regarding your care, please contact the Complaints Department:
complaints@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 936302