Broomfield Hospital Visiting Times – Are you planning a visit to a loved one at Broomfield Hospital? Understanding the Broomfield Hospital visiting times can help you make the most of your visit while ensuring you comply with hospital guidelines.
For many, visiting hours can be confusing, especially with changing guidelines due to health and safety concerns. Knowing when to visit and what to expect will help you avoid unnecessary delays and ensure a smooth experience.
By understanding the Broomfield Hospital visiting times, you’ll be better prepared, whether it’s for a quick visit or an extended stay with a loved one.
This guide will walk you through the essential information on visiting times, safety protocols, and transport options to make your visit as stress-free as possible.
Broomfield Hospital Visiting Times
Visiting a patient at Broomfield Hospital requires a good understanding of the hospital’s general visiting hours. These guidelines ensure patients receive proper care while still allowing family and friends to visit.
Standard Visiting Hours for Different Wards
Broomfield Hospital has established visiting times that vary based on the ward a patient is in. Below are the standard visiting hours for general wards:
- General Wards: 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM.
- Acute Frailty Unit: 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
- Surgical Wards: 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM.
- Orthopaedic Wards: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
These times are designed to balance patient recovery with the comfort of having visitors. It is recommended that visitors avoid coming during patient care or therapy times, as these are crucial for patient health and recovery.
If you need to visit outside these hours, it’s best to contact the ward directly for special arrangements.
The hospital encourages visitors to keep in mind that patients may tire quickly, so limiting visits to shorter durations is often advised.
Additionally, to maintain a quiet environment, visitors should adhere to hospital rules regarding noise levels and the number of visitors at any one time.
Visiting Times for Specialised Wards
Certain wards at Broomfield Hospital have specific visiting times due to the nature of the care provided:
- Neonatal Unit: Open 24 hours for parents, allowing them to be with their newborns at any time. Other visitors may need to arrange their visits in advance.
- Intensive Care Unit (ICU): 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM. Visits are often limited to immediate family only.
- Maternity Ward: 6:00 AM to 12:00 AM, providing extended hours for partners and close family members to spend time with new mothers and their babies.
- Paediatric Ward: 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM, but it’s recommended that only one parent or guardian stays during visits to reduce stress on young patients.
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Each specialised ward has its own set of rules to ensure patient well-being. Visitors are encouraged to call ahead, especially if they plan to visit outside of these times.
Broomfield Hospital also provides flexibility for urgent cases, where immediate family members may need to visit outside the usual visiting hours.
Guidelines for Visiting Broomfield Hospital
Visiting Broomfield Hospital comes with important guidelines to ensure the safety and comfort of both patients and visitors. Following these guidelines helps maintain a calm environment conducive to healing.
COVID-19 Precautions
In light of the ongoing pandemic, Broomfield Hospital has implemented strict COVID-19 protocols to ensure the safety of patients, staff, and visitors:
- Masks: While masks are no longer mandatory across the hospital, visitors are encouraged to wear them, particularly in areas with vulnerable patients, such as oncology and ICU wards.
- Symptoms: Visitors experiencing any COVID-19-related symptoms, such as a cough, fever, or loss of taste and smell, are advised not to visit the hospital until they are symptom-free.
- Vaccination Requirements: While the hospital does not require proof of vaccination for general visits, it encourages visitors to be fully vaccinated to protect themselves and others.
- Hygiene Practices: Hand sanitising stations are available throughout the hospital. Visitors should sanitise their hands upon entering and leaving patient areas.
These precautions help reduce the spread of the virus, especially in high-risk areas. It is always a good idea to call the ward in advance to confirm any updates on the hospital’s current COVID-19 policies.
Hygiene and Safety Guidelines
To protect both patients and staff, Broomfield Hospital has outlined several hygiene and safety guidelines for visitors:
- Hand Hygiene: Visitors are required to wash their hands thoroughly or use the hand sanitisers provided at entry points before and after visiting a patient.
- Illness: If you have cold, flu-like symptoms, or gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhoea or vomiting, you should avoid visiting the hospital. This is crucial to prevent the spread of infections to already vulnerable patients.
- Limitations on Visitors: Only two visitors are allowed per patient at any one time. For patients in high-risk areas like intensive care, even stricter rules may apply.
- Respectful Behaviour: It’s essential to maintain a quiet and peaceful atmosphere within the hospital. Loud talking, using mobile phones in restricted areas, or bringing large groups can disrupt the healing environment.
Adhering to these hygiene and safety rules ensures that both visitors and patients are kept safe from unnecessary risks.
Following these guidelines also shows respect for the hospital environment and staff, who work tirelessly to provide the best care possible.
Broomfield Hospital Parking and Transportation Options
Visiting Broomfield Hospital requires careful planning, especially when it comes to parking and transport. Here’s everything you need to know about how to get to the hospital, whether by car or public transport.
Parking Availability and Charges
Broomfield Hospital offers ample parking facilities to accommodate both patients and visitors. With over 1,800 parking spaces available, there’s a good chance of finding a spot, even during peak visiting hours.
Here’s a breakdown of parking availability and charges:
- Car Park Locations: There are multiple car parks near the main entrance, surgical wards, and emergency units.
- Charges: Parking is charged hourly, with longer-term parking options for visitors staying multiple hours or overnight. Rates are generally as follows:
- Up to 2 hours: £3.00
- 2-4 hours: £5.00
- 4-6 hours: £7.00
- Over 6 hours: £10.00
- Special Parking: Blue Badge holders have designated parking areas closer to the hospital entrances, and parking is free of charge for those with valid disability badges.
While parking is generally available, it is recommended to arrive early during busy periods to secure a spot. If planning to stay for an extended time, consider using the longer-stay options to save on costs.
Public Transport to Broomfield Hospital
Public transport offers a convenient alternative for those looking to avoid the hassle of parking. Broomfield Hospital is well connected via buses and park-and-ride services.
- Park and Ride: The Chelmer Valley Park and Ride service runs every 30 minutes from 6:30 AM to 8:00 PM, Monday through Friday. This service is ideal for visitors who prefer not to navigate the hospital’s busy car parks.
- Bus Services: Several bus routes serve Broomfield Hospital, with frequent services from Chelmsford town centre and surrounding areas. Key bus routes include:
- Route 42 (Chelmsford to Broomfield)
- Route 70 (Chelmsford to Braintree)
- Train and Bus Connection: Visitors travelling by train can reach the hospital from Chelmsford Railway Station by taking a direct bus route to the hospital.
Using public transport is not only eco-friendly but also more convenient during peak hours when parking spaces may be limited. For frequent visitors, the park-and-ride service is an affordable and reliable option.
Special Visiting Guidelines for Patients in Critical Care
Visiting critically ill patients at Broomfield Hospital requires following stricter guidelines to ensure their safety and comfort.
These protocols are in place to reduce the risk of infection and to create a supportive environment for both patients and their families.
Intensive Care Unit Visiting Protocol
Due to the sensitive condition of patients in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Broomfield Hospital limits visiting hours to specific times to ensure patients receive the care and rest they need. The visiting hours for the ICU are:
- 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
Family members are usually the only visitors permitted, and it is important to keep visits brief to avoid tiring the patient.
Visitors are encouraged to contact the ward in advance to confirm visiting times, as they may change depending on the patient’s condition.
Additionally, ICU visitors must adhere to strict hygiene protocols:
- Use hand sanitisers upon entering and leaving the ward.
- Wear any personal protective equipment (PPE) as directed by the staff.
- Limit the number of visitors to one or two people at a time.
If you feel unwell, especially with flu-like or gastrointestinal symptoms, it is crucial to delay your visit to avoid endangering the patient’s health. The ICU staff are always available to assist and answer any questions regarding visitation policies.
Paediatric Care Units
For children in the Paediatric Care Units, the hospital prioritises the emotional comfort of both the patient and their family.
Parents or guardians are generally allowed to stay with their child during their hospitalisation, and they can visit during the following hours:
- 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM for general visitors, while parents often have more flexible access.
It is recommended that only one parent or guardian stays with the child during overnight stays to minimise disruption and maintain a calm environment for all young patients.
Siblings and extended family may visit during standard visiting hours, but it’s best to check with the ward in advance.
For critical cases, the hospital may allow extended or overnight stays by a parent, depending on the child’s needs. As with the ICU, strict hygiene practices apply, and visitors must ensure they are in good health before visiting children in care.
Planning Your Visit to Broomfield Hospital
Before visiting Broomfield Hospital, it’s important to prepare properly to ensure your visit is as smooth and comfortable as possible. This includes knowing what to bring, how to get there, and ensuring you’re following the hospital’s guidelines.
What to Bring for Your Hospital Visit
When visiting a patient at Broomfield Hospital, bringing the right items can make your visit more enjoyable and help the patient feel more comfortable. Here’s a quick checklist of what to bring:
- Gifts and Entertainment: Patients often appreciate small gifts such as books, magazines, or fruit. However, it’s a good idea to check with the ward first, as certain items like flowers may not be allowed due to hygiene concerns.
- Comfortable Clothing: If you’re staying for a long visit, especially in specialised wards like Maternity or Paediatrics, make sure you’re dressed comfortably. If you’re visiting a patient who’s staying for an extended period, a light blanket or cushion can make the visit more comfortable for you too.
- Important Documents: For visitors assisting with a patient’s care (e.g., elderly or disabled family members), ensure you bring any necessary documents like power of attorney forms or insurance information, just in case they’re needed.
Always remember to leave valuable items, such as jewellery or large amounts of cash, at home. Hospitals are busy environments, and it’s best to minimise the risk of losing personal belongings.
Travel Tips for Visitors
Arriving at Broomfield Hospital, especially for the first time, can be daunting. Here are some travel tips to help make your journey easier:
- Use Public Transport: If possible, consider taking public transport. Broomfield Hospital is well-connected by bus routes, with services running frequently from Chelmsford town centre. The Chelmer Valley Park and Ride is another excellent option, running every 30 minutes from 6:30 AM to 8:00 PM.
- Parking Options: For those driving, the hospital has several parking areas, with over 1,800 spaces available. Be sure to allow enough time for parking, especially during peak visiting hours. Parking fees are charged by the hour, so consider longer-stay parking options if you anticipate a longer visit.
- Know Your Route: Plan your route in advance, whether by car or public transport. Broomfield Hospital is located in Chelmsford, Essex, and traffic can sometimes be heavy, particularly during rush hours. Use GPS or a route-planning app to check for any roadworks or delays on your way.
Location: Google Maps
By planning ahead, you can avoid unnecessary stress and focus on spending quality time with your loved ones.
Planning your visit around the Broomfield Hospital visiting times can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.
By familiarising yourself with the specific visiting hours and guidelines, you’ll be able to spend quality time with your loved one while adhering to the hospital’s policies.
Make sure to follow the advice provided in this guide for visiting hours, hygiene protocols, and transportation options. If you have any questions or need further information, don’t hesitate to reach out to Broomfield Hospital for the latest updates.