Lankenau Hospital Visiting Hours – Visiting a loved one at Lankenau Hospital can raise many questions, particularly regarding the hospital’s visiting hours and policies. What times are you allowed to visit, and what are the protocols you need to follow? Understanding Lankenau Hospital visiting hours is essential to ensure a smooth experience for both patients and visitors.
In today’s health-focused environment, knowing when and how you can visit is crucial. Whether it’s visiting a patient in the ICU or checking on a newborn in the Maternity Unit, adhering to Lankenau Hospital’s structured visiting hours helps maintain patient safety and recovery.
This article breaks down everything you need to know about Lankenau Hospital visiting hours. We’ll cover the specifics, including department-specific guidelines and COVID-19 protocols, to help you prepare.
With the right information at hand, you’ll know exactly what to expect before you arrive, making your visit as seamless and supportive as possible.
Lankenau Hospital Visiting Hours
Lankenau Medical Center, part of Main Line Health, maintains a structured schedule for visiting hours to ensure patient recovery and minimize disruptions.
Understanding these times is essential for families and loved ones who wish to visit. The hospital encourages visitors during specified hours but also provides flexibility in special cases depending on the patient’s condition.
Weekday and Weekend Visiting Times
Visitors are generally welcome at Lankenau Medical Center between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m., seven days a week. These consistent hours help ensure patients receive their care without unnecessary disruptions while allowing family members to offer crucial emotional support.
However, visitors must coordinate their arrival with hospital staff, especially in departments like the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), where more stringent restrictions may apply.
Key points about weekday and weekend visiting times:
- Weekday hours: Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.. Visitors are encouraged to come during daytime hours when most services are available.
- Weekend hours: Saturday and Sunday also follow the same 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. schedule, offering flexibility for those with work commitments during the week.
In certain circumstances, extended or modified visiting times can be arranged with the medical team. Always communicate in advance, especially if planning a visit outside standard hours.
Visitor Age Restrictions
Lankenau Hospital has specific guidelines regarding the age of visitors to ensure the safety and comfort of both patients and visitors.
- Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. This rule helps ensure that younger visitors are monitored and do not inadvertently disrupt patients’ recovery environments.
- For pediatric patients, parents and guardians can stay with their child throughout treatment, providing an essential support system. The hospital permits two visitors at a time, with special arrangements available for swapping visitors to ensure all family members have time with their loved ones.
Other United States Hospital Visiting Hours:
It’s important to note that certain departments, such as neonatal intensive care units (NICU) or patients in isolation (due to conditions like COVID-19), may have additional restrictions.
Visitors should always check with the hospital beforehand to confirm the most current guidelines.
Visiting Guidelines for Specific Departments
Lankenau Medical Center has different visiting rules tailored to the needs of each department. This ensures that patients receive the care and privacy they need while still allowing loved ones to visit. Below are the specific guidelines for some of the hospital’s critical care areas.
Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Visiting Rules
Visits to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Lankenau Medical Center require special consideration due to the nature of the care provided.
The hospital strives to maintain a balance between supporting patient recovery and allowing family presence.
Visitors to the ICU are typically limited to two at a time, and visiting hours are often more restricted compared to general wards.
- ICU visiting hours: Typically between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m., but these may vary depending on patient conditions.
- Visitors are encouraged to coordinate with the care team before arriving.
- Medical staff may request short visits to prevent fatigue or overstimulation for the patient.
During critical situations, exceptions can be made. However, it’s essential for visitors to stay updated on hospital protocols, especially regarding infection control measures.
Maternity and Pediatric Unit Policies
For new mothers and young patients, visits in the Maternity and Pediatric Units follow more flexible rules to support emotional well-being and family bonding.
- Maternity unit: The mother is allowed two support persons, which may include a partner or doula. These visitors can rotate during the hospital stay, ensuring continuous support.
- Pediatric unit: Parents or legal guardians are permitted to stay with their child at all times. In fact, their presence is highly encouraged to aid in the child’s recovery process.
- For both units, children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult, and all visitors must follow hospital sanitation guidelines, especially during flu season or heightened health concerns like COVID-19.
These guidelines are designed to ensure that mothers and young patients have the support they need while maintaining a safe environment for everyone involved.
End-of-Life and Hospice Care Visits
End-of-life care requires a more compassionate and flexible approach. The Hospice and End-of-Life Care Units at Lankenau Medical Center are committed to providing families with the time and space needed to be with their loved ones during these critical moments.
- Visiting hours: Families can generally visit throughout the day, with the hospital allowing for more flexible hours based on the patient’s condition.
- Visitor limit: While regular patients are allowed two visitors at a time, hospice patients may have more visitors based on the patient’s and family’s needs.
- In certain cases, family members may stay overnight to provide comfort during the final stages of care. The hospital staff will coordinate with the family to ensure that all visitation needs are met.
The emphasis in hospice and end-of-life care is on providing comfort and ensuring that patients and their families feel supported during such difficult times.
COVID-19 Protocols for Visitors
Lankenau Medical Center prioritizes patient and visitor safety with a strict set of COVID-19 protocols. These rules are designed to minimize the spread of the virus, while still allowing visitors to support their loved ones.
Following these guidelines is essential to ensure the safety of both patients and hospital staff.
Masking and Social Distancing Rules
To reduce the risk of transmission, all visitors to Lankenau Hospital are required to wear masks that meet hospital standards.
Hospital-approved masks must be worn at all times while inside the facility, including in patient rooms and common areas.
Cloth masks from home are not permitted, and visitors are provided with proper protective equipment upon arrival.
- Mask requirement: All visitors, regardless of vaccination status, must wear a surgical mask provided by the hospital.
- Social distancing: Visitors must maintain a distance of at least 6 feet from patients and staff wherever possible, particularly in waiting areas, elevators, and hallways.
- Visitor limit: The number of visitors is limited per patient to ensure social distancing can be properly maintained. In some departments, visitors may be asked to rotate to avoid overcrowding.
These protocols are subject to change based on the latest public health guidelines, so visitors should check for updates before visiting.
COVID-19 Positive Patients and Special Circumstances
Visiting COVID-19-positive patients requires special care to prevent the spread of the virus within the hospital.
Lankenau Medical Center has set forth strict rules for these situations, limiting exposure while ensuring that critically ill patients can still receive support from their loved ones.
- No visitors allowed for patients in isolation due to active COVID-19, except in exceptional cases, such as end-of-life situations.
- End-of-life exceptions: In these cases, visitors may be permitted to enter under strict supervision and must wear full personal protective equipment (PPE), including gowns, masks, gloves, and face shields.
- Quarantine advice: Visitors to COVID-19-positive patients are informed that they are considered exposed and are advised to follow proper quarantine measures after their visit.
These policies aim to balance the need for emotional support during critical moments with the hospital’s commitment to limiting virus spread.
Amenities for Visitors at Lankenau Medical Center
Lankenau Medical Center provides a variety of amenities to ensure that visitors are comfortable while supporting their loved ones.
From designated waiting areas to convenient parking, the hospital makes it easier for visitors to spend time at the facility without additional stress.
Lounges and Waiting Areas
Visitors to Lankenau Medical Center can take advantage of several comfortable lounges and waiting areas located throughout the hospital.
These spaces are designed to offer a peaceful environment for visitors who may be waiting for long periods, such as during surgeries or extended treatments.
- Visitor lounges: Available on each patient floor, these areas offer seating, reading materials, and a quiet atmosphere for families to relax and gather while waiting.
- Interfaith prayer and meditation room: For those seeking a more serene and spiritual environment, Lankenau provides an interfaith room on the first floor. This area is open 24/7, offering a space for reflection and spiritual care regardless of faith.
These lounges and quiet spaces allow visitors to step away briefly while still being close to their loved ones receiving care.
Parking and Transportation
Lankenau Medical Center offers multiple parking and transportation options to make visiting as convenient as possible.
Whether you drive yourself or use public transit, getting to and from the hospital is straightforward.
- Self-parking: Visitors can park in the hospital’s on-site parking garages, with rates starting at $5 for up to 3 hours and capping at $12 for a full 24-hour stay.
- Valet parking: For added convenience, valet parking is available at the main entrance for $7. Seniors and individuals with disabilities can receive valet services at a discounted rate of $5, with veterans receiving valet service for free with ID.
- Public transportation: Lankenau is easily accessible via SEPTA bus and rail services, with buses stopping directly at the hospital and the Paoli/Thorndale Line train station nearby.
Location: Google Maps
Visitors are encouraged to use public transport or plan their parking needs ahead of time, especially during peak visiting hours, to ensure a smooth experience.
How to Prepare for Your Visit to Lankenau Hospital
Preparing for a visit to Lankenau Medical Center involves a few essential steps to ensure your time at the hospital goes smoothly.
Whether you’re visiting a loved one or accompanying someone to a medical appointment, it’s important to know what to expect and how to make the most of your time.
Scheduling Visits in Advance
Planning ahead is key when visiting Lankenau Hospital, especially if your visit is outside of regular visiting hours or involves a patient in a special care unit such as the ICU or Maternity. Scheduling your visit in advance ensures you won’t face any unexpected restrictions.
- Coordinate with hospital staff: It’s recommended to call the hospital beforehand, particularly for departments like the ICU, where visiting hours are limited. Check if your visit requires any special permissions or pre-arranged time slots.
- Consider special circumstances: If you need to visit outside of normal hours, such as during critical situations or end-of-life care, make sure to coordinate with the medical team early to gain the necessary approvals.
By contacting the hospital in advance, you can make sure your visit aligns with the hospital’s schedules and policies, ensuring both you and the patient have a stress-free experience.
What to Bring During Your Visit
Packing appropriately for your visit to Lankenau Medical Center can enhance your comfort and make your time there more productive.
There are a few key items to consider bringing with you, depending on the purpose and length of your visit.
- Identification and documentation: Always bring a valid form of ID and any necessary documentation. This is particularly important if you’re providing caregiving support or need to access restricted areas.
- Comfort items: If you’re staying for an extended period in a waiting area, consider bringing reading materials, a phone charger, and light snacks. Many visitor lounges have seating, but it’s always a good idea to bring anything that will help you pass the time comfortably.
- Health and safety essentials: Given current COVID-19 protocols, it’s crucial to wear a mask and follow hospital guidelines. Visitors should also bring their own hand sanitizer and adhere to social distancing rules when applicable.
Making sure you have everything you need not only ensures you’re prepared but also allows you to focus on providing support to the patient without distractions.
Knowing Lankenau Hospital visiting hours ensures that your visit is as smooth and stress-free as possible, allowing you to provide the support your loved one needs during their stay. From ICU guidelines to COVID-19 protocols, understanding the specifics can make all the difference.
Make sure to plan your visit ahead of time by coordinating with the hospital staff and reviewing the most up-to-date policies. For more detailed information on Lankenau Hospital visiting hours or to schedule your visit, contact the hospital directly today.