Southport Hospital Visiting Times – When planning a visit to Southport Hospital, knowing the visiting times can make a significant difference to your experience. Are you unsure about the right time to visit a loved one? Southport Hospital has specific visiting hours designed to ensure patients receive the care they need while still allowing for important family support.
Understanding the hospital’s visiting times is crucial for anyone who wants to avoid disappointment or unnecessary delays. Whether you’re visiting someone in a general ward or a specialised unit like the ICU, adhering to these schedules is key to a successful visit.
With strict guidelines in place, particularly in light of ongoing health and safety concerns, it’s more important than ever to stay informed about Southport Hospital’s visiting times. This guide will help you navigate the best times to visit and how to ensure your visit goes smoothly.
Whether you’re visiting during regular hours or need to make special arrangements, this article covers everything you need to know to plan your visit effectively.
Southport Hospital Visiting Times
Visiting times at Southport Hospital are designed to provide families and friends the opportunity to support their loved ones during their recovery.
It’s important to familiarise yourself with the hospital’s general visiting policies, particularly as they can differ between wards and in response to specific situations such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
General Ward Visiting Times
For the general wards at Southport Hospital, visiting hours are set from 1:00 PM to 8:30 PM, providing flexibility for visitors throughout the day.
This schedule allows patients to rest during the morning and ensures they have plenty of time to see their family and friends in the afternoon and evening.
- Visiting Days: 7 days a week (including weekends)
- Visitor Limit: Generally, only two visitors per patient are allowed at a time to avoid overcrowding and ensure a calm environment conducive to recovery.
This standard visiting time applies to most adult general wards, but always check specific details with the ward you plan to visit, as there might be slight variations depending on patient needs and ward policies.
Changes Due to COVID-19 Restrictions
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Southport Hospital, like many other healthcare facilities, implemented changes to visiting times to protect both patients and staff.
While the situation has improved, some precautionary measures remain in place to ensure everyone’s safety.
Current protocols may include:
- Pre-booking: Visitors are required to book their visit in advance to manage the number of people present at any given time.
- Health Screening: Visitors must undergo health screening, such as temperature checks, before entering the hospital.
- Face Masks: Wearing a mask is mandatory in certain wards, especially where patients may be at higher risk.
In some instances, visits may be restricted or suspended, particularly if there are outbreaks of infections like COVID-19 or other contagious diseases. It’s always advisable to contact the hospital ahead of your visit to confirm the latest guidelines.
Visiting Outside Standard Hours
While the hospital has set visiting hours, there may be circumstances that require visits outside these times.
Southport Hospital is flexible in accommodating these needs, especially for patients who may benefit from extra support from family members.
- End-of-life care: Families of patients receiving palliative care can request extended visiting hours to spend more time with their loved ones during this sensitive period.
- Carer Support: If a family member plays a critical role in a patient’s care, such as helping with feeding or daily activities, special permission may be granted for visits outside regular hours.
- Emergency Situations: In cases of medical emergencies or significant changes in a patient’s condition, visitors may be allowed entry outside normal hours after consulting with the nurse or ward staff.
Other United Kingdom Hospital Visiting Hours:
| Princess Royal University Hospital | Cromwell Hospital |
| Royal Sussex County Hospital | Northwick Park Hospital |
To arrange visits outside standard hours, contact the ward in advance to discuss your situation with the ward manager or staff, who will do their best to accommodate your needs.
By providing clear and specific guidelines on visiting times, Southport Hospital aims to balance patient recovery with the benefits of social support. Always ensure you are aware of the latest protocols before your visit.
Special Ward Visiting Guidelines
Each ward at Southport Hospital has unique visiting rules that take into account the specific needs of patients and their families. From maternity to paediatric care, understanding the particular requirements of each ward is essential for a smooth visit.
Maternity and Neonatal Wards
Visiting new mothers and babies in the maternity and neonatal wards is a special time for families. However, these wards have specific guidelines to ensure the health and safety of both the mother and the newborn.
- Visiting Times: Partners are usually allowed more flexible visiting hours compared to other family members. Typically, partners can visit throughout the day, while other visitors, such as close family members, are limited to set hours—often from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
- Neonatal Care: For babies in neonatal intensive care, only parents are generally allowed to visit, and sometimes these visits may need to be booked in advance.
- Safety Measures: Due to the vulnerability of newborns, all visitors must follow strict hygiene protocols, including sanitising hands before entering the ward and wearing appropriate protective gear if necessary.
It’s always recommended to call ahead to confirm the visiting policy, especially during flu seasons or potential outbreaks.
Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Guidelines
The Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Southport Hospital has more restricted visiting hours due to the critical condition of patients in this ward. The hospital staff must carefully manage visitors to ensure patients have the rest and care they need for recovery.
- Visiting Times: Generally, visitors are allowed from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM, but this can vary based on the patient’s condition.
- Number of Visitors: Only one or two visitors are allowed at a time. This helps reduce noise and prevent overcrowding, ensuring a calm environment for recovery.
- Personal Items: Visitors should avoid bringing large bags or personal items into the ICU, as space is limited, and infection control is a priority.
Before visiting the ICU, it is essential to speak with the ward nurse to get clearance and guidance, especially if the patient’s condition is unstable.
Visiting Children in Paediatrics
Visiting a child in the paediatric ward can be an emotional experience, and Southport Hospital recognises the importance of parents being present for their children’s comfort and recovery.
- Parental Visits: Parents are typically allowed to visit their child at any time, with one parent often able to stay overnight in special accommodation.
- Other Visitors: Close family members, such as siblings, may visit during standard hours, which are usually from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM, though younger siblings may need to follow specific guidelines.
- School and Play Areas: Some paediatric wards may have school sessions or playrooms to support the child’s education and emotional wellbeing during their stay, but these areas may be off-limits to visitors during specific times.
It’s important to coordinate with the paediatric staff to ensure visiting times align with the child’s treatment schedule and rest periods.
Safety Protocols for Visitors
Southport Hospital maintains strict safety protocols to ensure the well-being of patients, staff, and visitors.
These measures are particularly crucial in controlling infections and minimising the risk of COVID-19 spread. Understanding these protocols before visiting will help ensure a smooth and safe experience.
Infection Control Measures
Infection prevention remains a top priority at Southport Hospital, especially in vulnerable wards. To reduce the risk of transmission, visitors are required to follow key hygiene practices:
- Hand Hygiene: All visitors must use hand sanitiser upon entering and leaving the hospital. Handwashing stations are also available near entrances and in key locations around the wards.
- Face Masks: Wearing a face mask is mandatory in some areas, particularly in wards where patients are more vulnerable to infections. Masks can be obtained at hospital entrances if required.
- Limiting Personal Items: To minimise contamination risks, visitors are advised to avoid bringing unnecessary personal items into patient areas.
These measures help protect both patients and hospital staff from common infections like flu and other contagious diseases.
COVID-19 Testing for Visitors
Given the ongoing concerns regarding COVID-19, Southport Hospital has specific guidelines for visitors to further safeguard everyone’s health:
- Health Screening: On arrival, visitors may be subject to temperature checks and asked to complete a brief health questionnaire regarding any recent symptoms or potential exposure to the virus.
- Testing Requirements: In certain situations, particularly when visiting vulnerable patients (e.g., in intensive care or neonatal units), visitors may be required to present a negative COVID-19 test taken within 24 hours of their visit. This ensures that only healthy individuals enter these critical care areas.
These protocols are in place to ensure that hospital visits can continue safely, especially as COVID-19 remains a concern in healthcare settings.
Always check with the hospital before your visit to ensure you are aware of the latest safety protocols.
Practical Information for Visitors
When visiting Southport Hospital, planning your visit in advance is essential, especially when it comes to parking and transport options. Here’s what you need to know to make your visit as smooth as possible.
Parking Facilities at Southport Hospital
Parking at Southport Hospital is available, but spaces can be limited, especially during peak times. The majority of parking is located at the rear of the hospital, near the main entrance.
The hospital uses a ticketless parking system, where your car’s number plate is registered upon entry, and you pay at the machine before leaving.
Payment can be made with cash, card, or contactless, and once the fee is paid, the exit barrier will automatically lift. Be sure to allow extra time for parking, particularly if visiting during busy hours.
- Parking charges: Charges are applicable for parking, typically starting from £1 for short stays.
- Blue Badge holders: Accessible parking is available for Blue Badge holders, and spaces are located near the main entrance. Remember to validate your Blue Badge upon first use.
Public Transport Options
Southport Hospital is well connected via public transport, making it accessible to visitors without a car. The hospital is served by both bus and train routes, with several bus lines stopping directly outside the hospital.
- Bus services: Local buses such as the 375, 44, and 15A frequently stop near the hospital’s entrances. Timetables and routes can be checked through Merseytravel for the most up-to-date information.
- Train services: For those travelling by train, Southport railway station is just a 10-minute drive or 20-minute bus ride away. Taxis are also available outside the station, offering a quick option to reach the hospital.
Public transport is a convenient alternative, particularly during busy times when parking may be limited.
How to Plan Your Visit
When visiting Southport Hospital, it’s important to plan ahead to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.
Whether you need to book your visit in advance or contact the hospital for more information, following the right steps will help you make the most of your time with your loved ones.
Booking Your Visit in Advance
In certain wards, particularly those with vulnerable patients, such as the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) or Neonatal Units, it’s often required or recommended to book your visit in advance.
This ensures that there aren’t too many visitors at once, allowing hospital staff to manage the space effectively and maintain a calm environment for patient recovery.
- How to Book: To reserve a visiting slot, simply call the hospital’s main reception or the specific ward you plan to visit. Booking times and processes may vary depending on the ward, so it’s best to confirm availability ahead of time.
- Online Booking: Some hospital services now allow for online booking, streamlining the process. Check the hospital’s official website or contact the ward directly to see if this option is available.
- COVID-19 Protocols: If COVID-19 restrictions are in place, booking ahead might be mandatory, as the hospital will need to limit the number of visitors to comply with social distancing guidelines.
By booking in advance, you help ensure that the ward is prepared for your visit, which can make your experience smoother and more efficient.
Contacting the Hospital
For any queries regarding visiting times, ward-specific protocols, or other general inquiries, contacting the hospital directly is the best way to get up-to-date information.
Whether you want to confirm the best visiting hours or need assistance in arranging special visits, the hospital’s staff are available to assist.
- Main Contact Number: You can reach Southport Hospital via its main switchboard at 01704 547471. This line will direct you to the appropriate department or ward for your specific inquiry.
- Alternative Contact Methods: If you prefer not to call, some departments may offer email contact or online chat support, especially for administrative inquiries such as parking or outpatient services.
- Ward-Specific Information: For more detailed information, such as specific visiting hours for different wards, it’s often better to contact the ward directly. This is particularly important if your loved one is in a specialised care unit where visiting rules may differ.
Location: Google Maps
By taking the time to contact the hospital and confirm the details of your visit, you ensure that everything runs smoothly and that both you and the patient can benefit from a safe and well-coordinated experience.
Ensuring you’re familiar with Southport Hospital visiting times is essential for a smooth and well-coordinated visit.
Whether it’s planning around specific ward schedules or understanding any safety protocols in place, staying informed will make your visit more enjoyable and stress-free.
For more information or to confirm specific visiting hours, contact Southport Hospital directly or visit their website. Always be sure to plan ahead to avoid any unexpected restrictions or changes, ensuring your visit goes as smoothly as possible.