The Royal Melbourne Hospital (RMH) is one of Australia’s premier public healthcare providers, offering a wide range of medical services.
For many, visiting loved ones in the hospital is a crucial part of the recovery process. Understanding the visiting hours and guidelines at RMH is essential to ensure a smooth and supportive visit.
This article provides an in-depth look at the Royal Melbourne Hospital visiting hours, including specific ward guidelines, visitor protocols, and amenities available to visitors.
Royal Melbourne Hospital Visiting Hours
Overview of General Visiting Hours
The general visiting hours at Royal Melbourne Hospital are from 10 am to 8 pm every day. These hours are designed to allow patients to rest and receive medical care without interruption while also giving family and friends ample time to visit and support their loved ones.
Rest Period Details
There is a designated rest period between 1.30 pm and 2.30 pm. During this time, the ward lights are dimmed, and curtains are drawn to create a quiet environment conducive to patient rest. Visitors are encouraged to respect this rest period, allowing patients to recuperate without disturbances.
Importance of Adhering to Visiting Hours
Adhering to the visiting hours is crucial for several reasons:
- Patient Recovery: Ensuring patients have uninterrupted time for rest and medical care.
- Hospital Operations: Allowing hospital staff to perform their duties efficiently and safely.
- Visitor Coordination: Managing the flow of visitors to prevent overcrowding and maintain a calm environment.
Why are there Set Visiting Hours?
The set visiting hours at RMH support family participation in care, which has been shown to improve the patient’s recovery and enhance communication between patients, families, and staff.
By having structured visiting hours, the hospital ensures that patients receive the necessary care and rest they need to recover effectively.
Specific Ward Visiting Hours
Intensive Care Unit (ICU)
The Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Royal Melbourne Hospital has specific visiting hours and guidelines to ensure the safety and well-being of patients. The ICU is located on Level 6 in Building B at the RMH Parkville.
Visiting Hours and Restrictions
- Visiting Hours: 10 am to 8 pm
- Visitor Restrictions: Visiting is restricted to immediate family members only, and a maximum of two visitors are allowed at the bedside at any given time. Children are permitted but must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
Guidelines for ICU Visits
- Visitor Coordination: To ensure a calm and safe environment, ICU staff may ask visitors to leave the bedside during certain procedures or patient care activities.
- Infection Prevention: Visitors must sanitize their hands and wear masks upon entering and exiting the ICU. Bringing flowers is not allowed due to infection risks, and food or drink should not be consumed at the bedside.
Ward Rounds and Patient Enquiries
- Ward Rounds: Conducted twice daily, from 7:30 am to 10 am and 3 pm to 5 pm. Next of kin or nominated representatives are welcome to attend the afternoon rounds to ask questions and understand the patient’s condition and progress.
- Patient Condition Enquiries: Medical information is provided only to the patient’s next of kin or their nominated representatives to maintain confidentiality.
Mental Health Wards (John Cade Building)
The Mental Health Wards located in the John Cade Building have visiting hours tailored to the needs of mental health patients. These hours may differ slightly to accommodate therapy sessions and patient schedules.
Visiting Hours and Special Considerations
- Visiting Hours: Typically from 10am to 8pm, but specific wards may have different schedules. It’s essential to check with the ward staff for the exact visiting hours.
- Visitor Guidelines: Visitors should be mindful of the therapeutic environment. It is recommended to coordinate visits with the ward staff to ensure they do not interfere with therapy sessions or patient activities.
Other Special Wards
Several other wards at RMH have unique visiting hours and guidelines to cater to the specific needs of their patients. These include:
Ward 6 South East and Ward 7 West
- Visiting Hours: Generally aligned with the hospital’s standard visiting hours, but may have additional rest periods or restrictions.
- Special Instructions: Visitors should inquire with the staff about any specific guidelines or exceptions that may apply to these wards.
Guidelines for Visitors
Mask Requirements
Wearing a mask is mandatory in all clinical areas of the Royal Melbourne Hospital. This measure is crucial for preventing the spread of infections and ensuring the safety of both patients and staff.
General Mask Guidelines
- Mandatory Mask-Wearing: All visitors must wear a mask in clinical areas. Masks are available at the entrances and throughout the hospital.
- N95 Masks: In high-risk areas such as the Emergency Department, visitors and patients must wear N95 masks. Other wards requiring N95 masks include Ward 5 West Day Medical, Ward 6 South West, and Ward 7B.
- Mask Exemptions: Visitors with a mask exemption must wear a face shield instead.
Checking In and Security
To maintain a secure environment, the Royal Melbourne Hospital has specific protocols for visitor check-ins and after-hours security.
Current Check-In Protocols
- No Longer Required: Visitors are no longer required to check in at the RMH Parkville hospital entrances. However, it is important to stay home if you are unwell, have COVID-19, or have been in contact with a COVID-19 case.
- After-Hours Security: Most wards close and lock their doors at 8 pm. Designated visitors who need to stay beyond these hours must arrange with the Nurse Unit Manager and may be required to wear a green Visitor sticker for identification.
Special Considerations
End-of-Life Care
Visiting Exceptions: For end-of-life care situations, exceptions to the standard visiting hours can be made. Visitors should speak with the ward’s Nurse Unit Manager to arrange visits during these critical times.
Rest Periods and Protected Mealtimes
- Rest Periods: Between 1.30 pm and 2.30 pm, the wards have a designated rest period to allow patients to rest. Designated visitors are allowed to stay during this time if necessary, but other visitors are encouraged to leave the ward.
- Protected Mealtimes: Certain wards have protected mealtimes where visitors are asked to leave so patients can enjoy their meals without distractions. Designated visitors may stay to assist patients during these times.
Guidelines for Children Visitors
Children are welcome to visit patients at RMH, but specific guidelines ensure their safety and the comfort of all patients.
- Supervision: Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. It is particularly important in high-risk areas such as the ICU.
- Restrictions: Depending on the ward and the patient’s condition, there may be additional restrictions on child visitors. It’s best to check with the ward staff before bringing children to visit.
Visitor Coordination and Etiquette
- Number of Visitors: Generally, two visitors are allowed at the bedside during visiting hours. This helps maintain a calm environment and ensures that medical staff can perform their duties effectively.
- Cooperation with Staff: Visitors may be asked to leave the bedside during certain procedures or patient care activities. Cooperation with hospital staff is essential to ensure the best care for patients.
Visitor Amenities and Services
Food, Drink, and Shops
Visitors at the Royal Melbourne Hospital have access to a range of amenities to make their stay more comfortable.
Cafeterias and Vending Machines
- Cafeterias: The hospital has several cafeterias that serve a variety of meals, snacks, and beverages. These are located in convenient areas within the hospital and are open throughout the day.
- Vending Machines: For quick snacks and drinks, vending machines are available in various locations within the hospital premises.
Shops
- Gift Shops: The hospital has gift shops where visitors can purchase items such as flowers, cards, and small gifts for patients.
- Pharmacy: There is an onsite pharmacy where visitors can purchase medications and other healthcare products.
Parking and Transportation
Access to parking and transportation is crucial for visitors, especially those who need to visit frequently or for extended periods.
Parking Facilities
- Onsite Parking: Limited public car parking is available on the hospital premises. It’s advisable to arrive early to secure a spot.
- Reduced Parking Passes: Family members of long-term patients can apply for reduced parking passes, making it more affordable to visit regularly.
Public Transport
- Buses and Trains: The hospital is well-served by public transport, with several bus routes and train stations nearby. This makes it convenient for visitors to reach the hospital without the need for private transport.
- Taxi Services: Taxis are readily available around the hospital area, and there are designated pick-up and drop-off points.
Other Visitor Amenities
Outdoor Spaces
- Gardens and Seating Areas: The hospital grounds include well-maintained gardens and outdoor seating areas where visitors can relax. These spaces provide a peaceful environment away from the hustle and bustle of the hospital wards.
Toilets and Baby Change Facilities
- Visitor Toilets: Toilets for visitors, including facilities for disabled individuals and baby change stations, are available in various locations throughout the hospital.
- ICU Waiting Area: Specific toilet facilities are available in the ICU waiting area for the convenience of visitors.
Additional Services
Information Desks
- Volunteer Assistance: Hospital volunteers are available to guide visitors and provide information. The volunteer reception desk is located on the ground level, just after the main entrance.
Internet and Telecommunication
- Wi-Fi Access: The hospital provides Wi-Fi access for visitors. It is particularly useful for those who need to stay connected for work or personal reasons during their visit.
- Mobile Phone Usage: Visitors are advised to switch their mobile phones to silent mode while inside the hospital to avoid disturbing patients. Specific guidelines about the use of electronic devices may apply, especially in sensitive areas like the ICU.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can children visit the hospital?
Children are welcome to visit patients at Royal Melbourne Hospital, but certain guidelines must be followed to ensure their safety and the comfort of all patients.
- Supervision: Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. This is particularly important in high-risk areas such as the ICU, where medical equipment and procedures require strict supervision.
- Restrictions: Depending on the ward and the patient’s condition, there may be additional restrictions on child visitors. It’s best to check with the ward staff before bringing children to visit.
What should visitors bring to the hospital?
When visiting the hospital, it is helpful to bring certain items to ensure comfort and convenience, while avoiding others to maintain a safe environment.
- Recommended Items:
- Personal Items: Toiletries, glasses, hearing aids, and dentures for the patient if necessary.
- Medication List: A list of the patient’s current medications can be very helpful for medical staff.
- Items to Avoid:
- Valuables: Do not bring valuables or money, as the hospital cannot guarantee their security.
- Flowers and Food: Flowers are not allowed in some wards, like the ICU, due to infection risks. Food and drink should not be consumed at the bedside.
Are there any restrictions on visitor numbers?
To ensure a safe and comfortable environment for all patients, RMH has guidelines on the number of visitors allowed.
- General Wards: Typically, two visitors are allowed at the bedside during visiting hours. This helps maintain a calm environment and ensures that medical staff can perform their duties effectively.
- ICU: Visiting is restricted to immediate family members only, with a maximum of two visitors at the bedside at any given time. Additional restrictions may apply depending on the patient’s condition.
How do visitors ensure they are not disrupting patient care?
To minimize disruptions to patient care, visitors should follow these guidelines:
- Cooperate with Staff: Visitors may be asked to leave the bedside during certain procedures or patient care activities. It is essential to cooperate with hospital staff to ensure the best care for patients.
- Respect Rest Periods: During designated rest periods (1.30 pm to 2.30 pm), visitors are encouraged to leave the ward to allow patients to rest undisturbed.
What should visitors do if they have concerns during their visit?
If visitors have any concerns or questions during their visit, they should not hesitate to speak to the hospital staff.
- Nurse Unit Manager: For general concerns, visitors can speak to the Nurse Unit Manager of the ward.
- ICU Staff: In the ICU, visitors can address their concerns to the bedside nurse or the Clinical Nurse Consultant.
Visiting loved ones at the Royal Melbourne Hospital is an integral part of the recovery process, providing emotional support and improving communication between patients, families, and medical staff.
By understanding and adhering to the hospital’s visiting hours and guidelines, visitors can ensure they are contributing positively to the healing environment.
By following these guidelines and utilizing the available amenities, visitors can play a vital role in the recovery and well-being of their loved ones at Royal Melbourne Hospital.
For more detailed information or specific inquiries, visitors are encouraged to contact the hospital staff directly or visit the https://www.thermh.org.au/.