Antrim Hospital visiting times are essential to know before planning a visit to see a loved one, but do you know the specific rules for different wards?
Visiting regulations ensure that patients receive the care and rest they need while allowing family and friends to provide support without disrupting hospital routines.
Understanding these schedules helps visitors avoid unnecessary inconvenience and ensures compliance with hospital policies.
Whether visiting a general ward, maternity unit, or intensive care, being informed about Antrim Hospital visiting times makes the experience smoother and stress-free.
Antrim Hospital Visiting Times
Understanding the visiting times at Antrim Area Hospital is essential for planning your visit effectively. Adhering to these schedules ensures that patients receive adequate rest and care while allowing loved ones to provide support.
General Visiting Times and Restrictions
For most adult wards at Antrim Hospital, the visiting hours are as follows:
- Afternoon: 2:30 pm – 4:00 pm
- Evening: 7:30 pm – 9:00 pm
These designated visiting hours help maintain a balance between patient rest and visitation. Visitors are encouraged to adhere to these times to ensure the well-being of all patients.
Special Visiting Times for Specific Wards
Certain wards at Antrim Hospital have tailored visiting times to accommodate the unique needs of their patients:
- Maternity Ward:
- Partners or One Nominated Person: 11:00 am – 9:00 pm
- General Visiting: 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm and 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
- Children’s Ward:
- Parents and carers are welcome at any time, recognising the importance of their presence for young patients.
- Intensive Care Unit (ICU):
- Visiting arrangements should be discussed directly with the Nurse-in-Charge due to the sensitive environment.
These specific visiting times ensure that patients receive the necessary care and rest, while visitors can provide support without disrupting hospital routines.
Evening and Emergency Visits
While the standard visiting hours are set to ensure patient well-being, Antrim Hospital understands that emergencies and special circumstances may arise:
- Evening Visits: The evening visiting slot from 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm caters to visitors who may have daytime commitments.
- Emergency Visits: In exceptional situations, such as critical patient conditions, visiting outside standard hours may be considered. These arrangements should be discussed with the ward’s Nurse-in-Charge to ensure minimal disruption and adherence to hospital policies.
It’s crucial to communicate with the hospital staff regarding any special visitation needs to ensure the safety and comfort of all patients.
Hospital Visitor Policies at Antrim
Antrim Area Hospital has established specific visitor policies to ensure the safety and well-being of patients, staff, and visitors. Adherence to these guidelines helps maintain a secure and comfortable environment for all.
Infection Prevention Measures
To minimise the risk of infection, visitors are expected to follow these protocols:
- Hand Hygiene: Use hand sanitiser or wash hands thoroughly upon entering and leaving the ward.
- Face Coverings: Visitors may be required to wear face coverings in certain areas as directed by nursing staff.
- Symptom Awareness: Refrain from visiting if exhibiting symptoms such as a high temperature, new continuous cough, or loss of taste or smell.
By following these measures, visitors contribute to a safer hospital environment, reducing the potential spread of infections.
Visitor Limitations
To ensure patient comfort and safety, the hospital has established the following visitor limitations:
- Number of Visitors: Typically, two visitors are allowed per patient during designated visiting times.
- Children Visitors: Children are generally discouraged from visiting; exceptions should be discussed with the nurse in charge.
Adhering to these guidelines helps maintain a conducive environment for patient recovery and hospital operations.
Special Considerations for Specific Units
Certain departments within Antrim Area Hospital have unique protocols to ensure patient care and safety. Understanding these considerations is essential for visitors.
- Emergency Department Visits: Priority is given to visitors or carers accompanying individuals with additional needs. Other visitors may be asked to limit their time in the department to maintain adequate distancing and space for treatment.
- Outpatient Appointments: Patients may be accompanied to their appointments if they wish. It’s advisable to arrive on time and check in promptly to ensure a smooth flow of scheduled appointments.
By adhering to these protocols, visitors help facilitate efficient care delivery in various hospital departments.
Directions and Parking at Antrim Hospital
Antrim Area Hospital is located at Bush Road, Antrim, BT41 2RL. Understanding the directions and parking facilities is essential for a smooth visit.
Directions to Antrim Hospital
- By Car:
- From the north-west or south-east, take the M2 motorway and exit at Junction 7. The hospital entrance is just off the roundabout.
- From Antrim town, use the A26, exit at Oriel Road, head towards the train station, then turn left onto Steeple Road. Continue to the junction with the B518, proceed onto Bush Road, and follow signs to the hospital.
- By Bus:
- Ulster Bus routes 154, 168B, 321E, and 219 stop at the on-site hospital bus stop.
- The shelter is located to the right of the main entrance, approximately 70 metres away, and is accessible with fixed seating.
- By Train:
- The nearest station is Antrim Railway Station, about 3.2 km from the hospital.
- Taxi services are available, and the 321E bus route connects the station to the hospital.
Parking Facilities at Antrim Hospital
- Main Visitor Parking:
- Located directly in front of the main entrance, this open-air car park operates a barrier system.
- Payment machines are situated both outside and inside the main entrance foyer.
- Emergency Department Parking:
- Situated opposite the Emergency Department, this car park also uses a barrier system.
- Payment machines are located inside the hospital building.
- Additional Parking (Car Park 2):
- Found to the right of the hospital site, next to the helipad, this open-air car park requires payment via machines located inside the hospital building or outside the main entrance.
Parking Charges and Accessibility
- Charges:
- Parking is subject to charges. Payment signs are clearly presented at car park entrances and payment machines.
- Payment is by cash only; card or contactless facilities are not available.
- Blue Badge Holders:
- Designated Blue Badge parking bays are available in all car parks.
- However, parking is not free for Blue Badge holders, and standard charges apply.
- Drop-off Points:
- A designated drop-off point is located to the left of the main entrance.
- Please note, there is no dropped kerb at this point.
Understanding these directions and parking facilities will assist visitors in planning their journey to Antrim Area Hospital effectively.
Contact Information for Antrim Hospital
For any hospital contact details, visitor enquiries, or assistance, please refer to the following information:
Main Contact Details
- Address: Bush Road, Antrim, BT41 2RL, United Kingdom
- Main Switchboard: 028 9442 4000
Emergency Department
- Availability: Open 24 hours every day
- Phone First Service: For urgent treatment that is not immediately life-threatening, please call 0300 123 1 123 before attending.
Ward Contact Information
If you’re unsure which department you need, the main switchboard can direct your call.
For specific ward contact details, please visit the hospital’s official website or contact the main switchboard.
Having accurate contact information ensures that visitors and patients can efficiently address their enquiries and receive the necessary assistance when visiting Antrim Area Hospital.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Antrim Hospital
Visitors to Antrim Area Hospital often have questions regarding visiting protocols and guidelines. Below are answers to some of the most common enquiries:
1. How many visitors are allowed per patient at Antrim Hospital?
Typically, two visitors are permitted per patient during designated visiting times. This policy helps maintain a conducive environment for patient recovery and hospital operations.
2. Are children allowed to visit patients at Antrim Hospital?
Children are generally discouraged from visiting. Exceptions may be made under certain circumstances and should be discussed with the nurse in charge.
3. What infection prevention measures should visitors follow at Antrim Hospital?
Visitors are expected to adhere to the following protocols to minimise the risk of infection:
- Hand Hygiene: Use hand sanitiser or wash hands thoroughly upon entering and leaving the ward.
- Face Coverings: In certain areas, visitors may be required to wear face coverings as directed by nursing staff.
- Symptom Awareness: Refrain from visiting if exhibiting symptoms such as a high temperature, new continuous cough, or loss of taste or smell.
By following these measures, visitors contribute to a safer hospital environment, reducing the potential spread of infections.
Knowing Antrim Hospital visiting times ensures a smooth and stress-free experience for both visitors and patients. Adhering to these guidelines allows loved ones to offer support while maintaining a calm and well-regulated hospital environment.
For the latest updates on hospital policies, share this information with others who may find it useful, or leave a comment with your experiences. Visit hospitalvisittimes.com for more insights on hospital access and visitor regulations across the UK.
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