Visiting friends and relatives

We try to have a flexible approach to visiting. Visiting times vary from ward to ward. All wards have a rest period when visiting is restricted. It may also be necessary to restrict the number of visitors around a bed at any one time.

Please speak to staff on your ward to confirm visiting times.

Respecting patients' needs

There are occasions when patients are particularly unwell and need to rest. We ask that you and your visitors are sensitive to the needs of other patients and respond to any requests made by ward staff.

There may be alternative areas available where visitors can meet friends and relatives. Please ask a member of staff. 

Occasionally it may be necessary to restrict visiting times for an individual patient, for example if they become tired easily. The sister/charge nurse may also suggest a limit to the number of visitors at any one time.

Children

Children are welcome to visit but please check with the sister / charge nurse first.

Infections – coughs, colds, etc

Some patients may be at risk of developing infections, so should not receive visitors who have a cough, cold or sore throat.

If you or your family have been in recent contact with infectious diseases, such as mumps, chicken pox or measles, please phone the ward to check whether you should visit.

Gifts for patients – food, drink, etc

Please check with the sister / charge nurse to see if there are any restrictions on what visitors may bring onto the ward.

If visitors wish to bring in food or drink, ask the sister/charge nurse what is suitable. Storage space for food in ward areas is very limited.