rah hospital paisley visiting times can vary depending on the ward you’re visiting, but most areas require you to call ahead to confirm specific hours.
For general wards, visiting is typically allowed during the day, with flexibility in special care areas like maternity and neonatal units.
To avoid disappointment or delays, it’s best to contact the ward directly via the RAH switchboard at 0141 314 7294.
Planning to visit a loved one at Royal Alexandra Hospital in Paisley? Whether you’re heading to the postnatal ward, checking in on a surgery patient, or visiting a newborn in intensive care, knowing the right visiting times is essential.
RAH Hospital Paisley Visiting Times
Royal Alexandra Hospital (RAH) in Paisley, part of NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, advises that visiting times vary by ward and that patients’ friends and family should always phone ahead.
While some wards may permit visiting during standard daytime hours (e.g., 14:00–16:00 and 18:00–20:00), there is no universal hospital-wide visiting schedule. Instead, each ward may have its own timetable and guidelines depending on staffing levels, patient needs, and infection control measures.
The main switchboard at RAH can be reached via 0141 314 7294. This number connects callers to the appropriate ward, allowing them to check availability, visitor numbers allowed, and any short-term restrictions in place.
It’s especially important to call in advance during flu season or in the event of a local COVID-19 outbreak, when visiting might be suspended temporarily.
In summary, always confirm the current visiting hours with staff before attending to avoid disruption or being turned away.
Neonatal Unit
The Neonatal Unit at Royal Alexandra Hospital has a more flexible and compassionate visiting policy tailored to parents and close family. Parents and partners can visit at any time, day or night, in recognition of the need for bonding and parental presence during this critical stage of newborn care.
However, access is controlled via a secure buzzer-entry system, and only two visitors are permitted per cot space at any one time. While siblings may visit, children under 16 who are not siblings are generally not allowed. This policy helps limit noise and potential infection risks in this sensitive environment.
The neonatal team encourages parents to be involved in every aspect of their baby’s care. Staff are available to provide updates, answer questions, and support families during their stay.
If you’re planning to visit the Neonatal Unit, ensure you’re aware of hand hygiene protocols and avoid visiting if unwell.
Maternity & Postnatal Visiting
Visiting times for the maternity and postnatal wards at Royal Alexandra Hospital Paisley are designed to support mothers while maintaining a calm, clinical environment.
While the hospital doesn’t publish fixed public visiting hours online, birth partners typically have extended or even 24-hour access, especially during labour and early postnatal recovery.
For postnatal ward visits, named partners are generally welcome between 08:00 and 20:00, though exact times may vary by bed availability and staff scheduling. It’s also common for staff to implement protected rest or feeding periods, during which visits may be paused to ensure the mother and baby have quiet time.
Children, including siblings, may be permitted to visit under supervision, but children under 16 who are not immediate family are usually restricted. During infectious outbreaks, maternity visiting can be temporarily reduced for safety reasons.
As always, it’s strongly advised to contact the maternity ward directly via the RAH switchboard (0141 314 7294) to confirm exact arrangements on the day of your visit.
Adult Inpatient Wards
Visiting hours for adult inpatient wards at Royal Alexandra Hospital Paisley including surgical, medical, and rehabilitation units are generally variable and managed at ward level.
Unlike maternity or neonatal areas where more structured arrangements exist, adult wards often implement flexible visiting that adapts to patient care schedules, staffing, and public health guidance.
Historically, many adult wards operated a twice-daily visiting pattern, such as 14:30–15:30 and 19:00–20:30, but these schedules are no longer guaranteed.
Post-pandemic, the hospital adopted a more tailored approach, often allowing visits when it suits patients and wards, provided they don’t clash with meal times or medical procedures.
In some cases, only one or two visitors may be allowed at a time, and visits may be shortened or suspended during outbreaks of flu, norovirus, or COVID-19. Some wards also observe protected meal times, during which visiting is discouraged to allow patients to eat undisturbed.
For the most accurate and respectful visit, always call the ward in advance to confirm current hours and any limits on visitor numbers. The main RAH contact number (0141 314 7294) can connect you to individual wards for direct information.
Infection Control Measures at RAH Paisley
To protect vulnerable patients and reduce the risk of disease transmission, infection control remains a key priority at Royal Alexandra Hospital Paisley. Whether visiting a surgical patient or entering the neonatal unit, it’s essential to follow updated hygiene and illness protocols.
Visitors showing symptoms of COVID-19, flu, or norovirus (such as vomiting or diarrhoea) are strongly advised not to attend the hospital.
NHS guidelines request that anyone who has experienced gastrointestinal symptoms wait at least 48 hours after recovery before visiting. This helps prevent ward closures and protects both patients and staff.
Although face coverings are not currently required in most areas, they may still be requested in certain wards, particularly those caring for respiratory or immune-compromised patients. During times of high community infection, mask rules may be reinstated temporarily.
Other key practices include:
- Using hand sanitiser at entry points
- Limiting visitor numbers where requested
- Complying with staff instructions regarding PPE (if provided)
Hospital staff may also ask visitors to step out during medical procedures or when patients require rest. Respecting these requests helps ensure that care standards remain high for everyone.
For the latest infection guidance before visiting, call RAH on 0141 314 7294 or check NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde’s official website.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the general visiting hours at RAH Paisley?
Royal Alexandra Hospital does not have set hospital-wide visiting hours. Instead, each ward sets its own schedule, and visitors are advised to phone the hospital directly on 0141 314 7294 to confirm the latest information.
2. Can children visit patients in Royal Alexandra Hospital Paisley?
Children under 16 are generally not allowed to visit, especially in sensitive areas like the neonatal unit. However, siblings may be permitted in some maternity or family-centred wards. It’s best to check with the ward in advance.
3. Do I need to wear a mask when visiting RAH hospital?
As of the latest guidance, masks are not required in most hospital areas, but they may be requested in wards with respiratory patients or during infectious outbreaks. Visitors should always follow staff instructions regarding personal protective equipment.
Conclusion
Understanding the rah hospital paisley visiting times is essential for ensuring your visit goes smoothly and respectfully.
While visiting hours are not uniform across the hospital, most wards welcome visitors daily provided you call ahead to confirm the details. Special care units such as maternity and neonatal wards offer greater flexibility but may have restrictions around visitor numbers and age.
For the most accurate information, always phone the Royal Alexandra Hospital directly at 0141 314 7294 before your visit. This simple step helps avoid disappointment, ensures compliance with infection control rules, and allows staff to support both patients and visitors more effectively.
Whether you’re planning to visit a new mum, a recovering patient, or a loved one in specialist care, we hope this guide has helped you feel prepared and informed.
Want to explore more? Check out our other hospital visiting guides across Scotland and the wider UK.
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