Are you unsure about the North Tees Hospital visiting times and whether there are any restrictions in place?
Planning a hospital visit can be overwhelming, especially when different wards have specific rules regarding visitor access.
Understanding the correct visiting hours helps ensure a smooth experience while respecting patient recovery and hospital guidelines.
Before heading to the hospital, it’s essential to check the latest North Tees Hospital visiting times to avoid any inconvenience.
North Tees Hospital Visiting Times
Knowing the North Tees Hospital visiting times helps visitors plan their trip while ensuring a smooth experience for patients, families, and hospital staff. Standard visiting hours are designed to provide patients with ample time to rest while allowing loved ones to offer support.
Different wards may have specific rules, and emergency situations may require flexible arrangements. Below is a breakdown of the hospital’s visiting schedules and restrictions.
General Visiting Times and Restrictions
The North Tees Hospital visiting times for general wards are structured to balance patient recovery with the benefits of patient visitation. Ensuring visitors adhere to visiting hours is essential for maintaining hospital efficiency and patient well-being.
Standard Visiting Hours for General Wards
Most general wards follow a fixed visitation schedule:
- Afternoon Visiting Hours: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
- Evening Visiting Hours: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Visitors are advised to follow these set times to reduce disruptions to medical care. Each patient is typically allowed up to two visitors at a time, ensuring a calm and controlled environment.
Restrictions on Patient Visitation
Certain hospital policies may affect when and how visits take place:
- Age Restrictions: Children under 12 may not be permitted to visit general wards unless special arrangements are made.
- Health Precautions: Visitors showing signs of illness (cold, flu, or other contagious conditions) are discouraged from entering.
- Quiet Hours: To maintain a restful atmosphere, visitors should keep noise levels to a minimum and avoid prolonged stays.
- Protective Equipment: Some areas may require masks or sanitisation procedures for infection control.
Visitors should check with the hospital before arriving, as hospital visitor rules can change based on public health guidance.
Special Visiting Times for Specific Wards
While North Tees Hospital visiting times for general wards follow a standard pattern, some specialised units have different schedules due to patient needs and medical procedures.
Maternity Ward Visiting Hours
For those visiting new mothers and newborns, maternity ward guidelines ensure a safe and supportive atmosphere:
- Partners: Allowed at any time.
- General Visitors: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
- Children: Siblings may be allowed during specified hours, but other children require permission.
Children’s Ward Visiting Times
Visiting a child in hospital requires flexibility. The children’s ward has extended visiting times for parents:
- Parents and Guardians: 24-hour access.
- General Visitors: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM.
- Restrictions: Only two visitors at a time.
ICU Visiting Hours and Guidelines
For critically ill patients, ICU visiting hours are stricter:
- Visiting Hours: 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM and 3:30 PM – 6:30 PM.
- Limited Visitors: Only immediate family or close relatives allowed.
- Protective Measures: Visitors may need to wear personal protective equipment (PPE).
Checking in with the hospital before visiting these wards is recommended, as rules can change based on patient conditions.
Evening and Emergency Visits
For those unable to visit during standard hours, evening visits and emergency access are sometimes permitted.
Late Evening Visitation
- Special Arrangements: Visitors who need to stay past 8:00 PM must get prior approval from the ward.
- Compassionate Visits: Patients in palliative care or critical conditions may receive visitors outside standard hours.
Emergency Visits Outside Regular Hours
In urgent situations, visitors may be allowed entry outside standard times:
- End-of-Life Visits: Flexible hours are offered to immediate family.
- Critical Condition Patients: Immediate family may be granted access at any time.
- Carers and Support Persons: Those with a Carer Passport may be given extended visiting privileges.
Visitors should always confirm with the hospital’s staff before making an unplanned visit outside of regular North Tees Hospital visiting times.
Hospital Visitor Policies at North Tees
To ensure a safe and comfortable environment for patients, visitors, and hospital staff, North Tees Hospital has implemented hospital visitor rules that align with hospital policy and patient safety guidelines.
These policies help regulate visitation procedures, minimise health risks, and maintain a positive recovery setting for patients.
General Hospital Visitor Rules
All visitors to North Tees Hospital are expected to follow these basic hospital visitor rules:
- Number of Visitors: A maximum of two visitors per patient at a time.
- Visiting Hours Compliance: Visitors should adhere to designated hospital visiting times to prevent disruptions.
- Respect for Quiet Hours: Minimise noise and avoid loud conversations to ensure a restful atmosphere.
- Supervision for Young Visitors: Children under 12 should be accompanied by an adult and require prior approval from ward staff.
- No Filming or Photography: To respect patient privacy, the use of mobile phones for recording or taking pictures is not allowed in patient areas.
These guidelines are designed to ensure a smooth patient visitation experience without compromising medical care.
Infection Control and Health Safety Measures
To protect patients from potential infections, North Tees Hospital visitor rules include strict patient safety guidelines:
- Hand Hygiene: Visitors must sanitise hands before and after entering a patient’s room.
- Illness Restrictions: Those experiencing flu-like symptoms, coughs, or infections should postpone their visit.
- Protective Equipment: In certain wards, visitors may be required to wear masks, gloves, or hospital-provided gowns.
- COVID-19 or Flu Season Protocols: Temporary visiting restrictions may apply during outbreaks or high-risk periods.
The hospital’s infection control team regularly reviews these policies to ensure compliance with NHS hospital policy.
Exceptions and Special Arrangements
While general hospital visitor rules apply to most visitors, certain circumstances may warrant special arrangements:
- End-of-Life and Palliative Care: Families of patients receiving end-of-life care may be granted unrestricted access.
- Critical Condition Patients: Immediate family members may receive permission for extended or overnight visits.
- Carer and Disability Support Visitors: Patients with disabilities or requiring additional support may have a designated carer present beyond standard hours.
For any special arrangements, visitors should speak with the hospital ward manager in advance.
Following North Tees Hospital policy ensures that all visitors contribute to a safe and effective healing environment.
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Directions and Parking at North Tees Hospital
Visitors planning a trip to the hospital should know the best ways to get there and where to park. Whether traveling by car, public transport, or taxi, having clear directions can help make the visit smoother.
North Tees Hospital visitor parking is available on-site, with different options for short-term and long-term stays. Below are the most convenient routes and transport services available for visitors.
How to Get to North Tees Hospital
North Tees Hospital is located in Stockton-on-Tees, and visitors can reach it using several transport services:
- By Car: The hospital is accessible via the A177 and A66, with clear signposts leading to the main entrance.
- By Public Bus: Several local bus routes stop near the hospital, including services from Stagecoach and Arriva North East.
- By Train: The nearest train station is Stockton Station, approximately 3 miles from the hospital. Taxis and buses are available from the station to the hospital.
- By Taxi or Ride Services: Local taxi companies operate in the area, with designated drop-off points near the main hospital entrance.
Visitors should check real-time travel updates, especially during peak hours, to avoid delays.
North Tees Hospital Visitor Parking Options
The hospital provides a hospital visitor parking system with designated areas for patients, families, and disabled visitors:
| Parking Area | Location | Charges | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Visitor Car Park | Near Main Entrance | £2 for first 2 hours, £4 for 4 hours, £6 all-day | Pay-at-machine system |
| Disabled Parking | Close to hospital entrances | Free for Blue Badge holders | Blue Badge must be displayed |
| Drop-off Zones | Emergency & Main Entrances | Free (15 min max) | For patient drop-offs only |
- Parking Permits: Available for long-term visitors or those frequently visiting a patient.
- Parking Fines: Enforcement is in place to prevent misuse of parking spaces. Visitors must follow parking time limits to avoid penalties.
Public Transport Services Near North Tees Hospital
For visitors who prefer public transport, these options are available:
- Bus Routes Serving the Hospital: Buses 36, 37, and 38 provide frequent service.
- Train Services: Direct services to Stockton-on-Tees, Middlesbrough, and Darlington with onward bus links to the hospital.
- Local Taxi Operators: Available 24/7 with hospital drop-off access.
Planning ahead and checking live timetables for how to get to North Tees Hospital can help visitors avoid unnecessary delays.
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Contact Information for North Tees Hospital
Having access to the right hospital contact details is essential for visitors, patients, and caregivers who need assistance before or during their visit.
Whether it’s for visitor enquiries, checking North Tees Hospital visiting times, or seeking medical support, the hospital provides several communication channels to ensure quick and efficient assistance.
Key Hospital Contact Details
For general enquiries, visitor information, and patient-related concerns, visitors can use the following hospital contact details:
| Department | Phone Number | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Main Hospital Switchboard | 01642 617617 | General enquiries, appointments, visitor information |
| Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) | 01642 624719 | Assistance with patient concerns, hospital services, feedback |
| Emergency Department | 999 (for emergencies) | Urgent medical assistance |
| Ward Contact Numbers | Available upon request | Direct communication with hospital wards |
Visitors are advised to call the main hospital switchboard if they are unsure which department to contact.
Visitor Enquiries and Assistance
For those requiring specific visitor enquiries, the hospital has a dedicated team to help with:
- Confirming Visiting Hours: Checking if there are changes to North Tees Hospital visiting times due to medical or seasonal restrictions.
- Special Visiting Arrangements: Requesting permission for late or extended visits, particularly for end-of-life or critical care patients.
- Lost and Found: Reporting lost belongings during a hospital visit.
- Directions and Accessibility Assistance: Getting guidance on parking, wheelchair access, and mobility support.
Online Assistance and Alternative Contact Options
In addition to phone support, the hospital provides online resources for visitors who need quick access to hospital visitor assistance:
- Official Website: Contains the latest visitor enquiries updates and patient information.
- Email Support: Some departments accept email queries for non-urgent concerns.
- Social Media Channels: Updates on hospital policies, public health alerts, and service changes.
It’s recommended to check the hospital’s website or call ahead for the latest visitor guidelines and contact details before planning a visit.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting North Tees Hospital
To help visitors prepare for their trip, here are some common visitor enquiries related to North Tees Hospital visiting times, hospital rules, and general guidelines.
1. Can I visit a patient outside of standard visiting hours?
In special circumstances, such as end-of-life care or critical conditions, the hospital may allow visits outside regular visiting hours. Visitors should contact the relevant ward in advance to request extended access.
2. Are children allowed to visit patients at North Tees Hospital?
Children under 12 years old are generally not permitted in general wards unless special arrangements are made. However, in maternity and children’s wards, siblings of newborns or paediatric patients may be allowed during specific hours.
3. Do I need to wear a mask while visiting North Tees Hospital?
Mask requirements depend on the ward and current health guidelines. Visitors to ICU, respiratory units, or high-risk areas may be required to wear personal protective equipment (PPE). It’s best to check with the hospital before arrival.
4. Is there free parking for visitors at North Tees Hospital?
Standard hospital visitor parking is paid, with rates based on duration. However, Blue Badge holders and long-term visitors (e.g., carers) may be eligible for free or discounted parking.
For further hospital visitor assistance, visitors are encouraged to call the main hospital switchboard or check the official website for updates.
Understanding the North Tees Hospital visiting times ensures a smooth and stress-free visit while respecting hospital policies and patient well-being.
Checking the latest visiting hours and ward-specific guidelines can help you plan ahead and avoid any unexpected restrictions.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with others who may need the same information, or leave a comment with your experience visiting the hospital.
For more updates on hospital access and visitor policies, explore other guides on www.hospitalvisittimes.com.
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