In this section
We know that coming to hospital can be a worrying time for patients. We will do everything possible to improve your health so that you are able to return safely home as quickly as possible.
If you have any questions during your time with us then please ask a member of your nursing team.
Admission
When you are admitted to our hospital for a planned operation or procedure your admissions letter will explain where you need to go. Many of you will be asked to come to our admissions lounge. This is where you will be signed into the hospital, and forwarded on to your consultation or taken to a ward and introduced to the nursing team that will be looking after you. If you have any questions at any time please ask our staff who are there to help you.
You will be given an identification wrist-band with your name, date of birth and hospital number on it that should be worn at all times, and asked a series of questions to enable us to plan your care. Please take this opportunity to tell us about:
- Medications you have been taking at home
- Any allergies you may have
- Dietary requirements or any special needs
- Help you might need whilst in our care
- If you are pregnant or may be pregnant
- Your nominated next of kin to receive relevant information
Your treatment
The medical team looking after you will visit you to check how you are and discuss your treatment. Before any doctor, nurse of therapist examines or treats you, they must seek you consent or permission. If you are having an operation or procedure you will be asked to sign a consent form either at your pre-op appointment or once you have been admitted to a ward or department. Our staff will provide you with all the information about the treatment or investigation which is being offered in order for you to give your permission to proceed. Please ask any questions or raise any concerns you may have.
Moving to another bed or ward
Sometimes we may need to move you to another ward or transfer you to another hospital during your stay This is normally due to clinical need. The reasons for any move will be fully explained to you.
Who will be involved in your care?
Many healthcare professionals may be involved in your care and you will see many different uniforms on our wards. All our staff wear an identity badge that shows their picture, name and what they do. You can ask to see this at any time during your stay.
Consultant and Doctors
A consultant will oversee your treatment and is responsible for your medical care whilst in hospital. The consultant leads a team of doctors to support your care.
Nursing Teams
Experienced ward sisters or charge nurses are responsible for running the ward you are staying on – they are known as ward managers. A team of nurses will care for you whilst in hospital; however one nurse will have responsibility for planning and co-ordinating your care. Matrons have responsivity for several wards or areas.
Clinical support staff
Other healthcare professionals such as pharmacists, dieticians, and physiotherapists may also be involved in your care.
Teaching and research
This is a teaching hospital which means some procedures may be carried out under supervision by student doctors, nurses and midwives as part of their training and development. We also have a large research facility and you may be asked to take part in a research project – this would always be fully explained and your consent would be needed.
Aggressive behaviour
The hospital has a zero tolerance policy to aggression, violence and verbal abuse. Police will be called to incidents where staff or other patients have been abused.
No Smoking Policy
The hospital operates a No Smoking policy in all of our buildings and grounds. If you require nicotine replacement therapy during your stay then please speak to a member of staff to refer you to our smoking cessation service.