Some wards have different visiting times or rules because of the needs of patients, infection prevention, privacy or safety.
Before you visit, please check:
- which hospital and ward the patient is on
- the visiting times for the ward
- whether there is a limit on the number of visitors
- whether children can visit
- if you need to contact the ward before visiting
Do not visit if you are unwell
Do not visit hospital if you feel unwell. This includes cold or flu symptoms, COVID-19 symptoms, sickness or diarrhoea, sore throat or fever. If you have had diarrhoea or vomiting, do not visit for at least 48 hours after your symptoms have stopped.
During your visit:
- clean your hands when you enter and leave the ward
- follow any instructions from ward staff
- respect other patients’ privacy
- keep noise low
- do not sit on patient beds
- keep the bed area clear
- check with staff before bringing food, flowers or large gifts
- leave the bedside or ward if staff ask you to during care or treatment
Visiting times
In most inpatient areas, visitors are permitted anytime, with a limit of 2 visitors at the bedside at any one time.
Please note some wards may have local visiting arrangements in place. We recommend you check the arrangements with the ward you're going to before your visit.