Poole Hospital visiting times typically run from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm for most wards, with some variations depending on the department or patient care needs.
Visitors should avoid protected mealtimes between 12:00–13:00 and 17:00–18:00, and it’s strongly advised to confirm timings with the relevant ward before arrival.
Planning a visit to a loved one at Poole Hospital? Whether you’re supporting a recovering relative, checking in on a new mum, or visiting a child in care, knowing when and how to visit can make the experience smoother for everyone.
This guide provides a comprehensive, up-to-date overview of visiting hours across general wards, maternity, children’s units, and critical care along with essential guidance on NHS visitor policies, health precautions, and how to prepare for your visit.
Let’s make your hospital visit safe, timely, and stress-free.
Poole Hospital Visiting Times
Visiting hours at Poole Hospital are generally set between 2:00 pm and 8:00 pm, seven days a week. However, these hours can vary slightly depending on the ward and the patient’s condition. Visitors are encouraged to be mindful of these times to ensure minimal disruption to patient care and hospital operations.
For the most accurate information, it’s best to contact the relevant ward directly, especially during periods of heightened infection control or policy changes.
Standard Visiting Hours
Across most inpatient wards, visiting is open between 2:00 pm and 8:00 pm. This window allows family and friends to visit patients without interrupting key care routines or medical procedures.
During this time, patients can receive up to two visitors at once, although this may vary depending on space, privacy, and patient wellbeing. Visiting outside of these hours is usually reserved for exceptional circumstances and should be arranged with the ward nurse in charge.
NHS guidance emphasises the importance of maintaining a calm and quiet hospital environment—visitors are asked to keep noise levels low and visits respectful of other patients’ needs.
Exceptions by Ward
While the general rule applies to most departments, some wards at Poole Hospital operate with restricted or adjusted visiting times:
- Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and High Dependency Units (HDU) may allow visits by arrangement only, often in shorter 30-minute slots to reduce infection risk and stress on critically ill patients.
- Elderly care and rehabilitation wards may vary based on daily schedules, therapy times, or infection outbreaks. Staff may recommend visits after certain treatment windows.
- Oncology and palliative care sometimes offer more flexible hours to accommodate the emotional and practical needs of patients and their families.
To avoid any disappointment, always phone the ward directly before travelling—Poole Hospital’s main switchboard is 01202 665511.
Visiting Restrictions and Guidelines
Poole Hospital, part of University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust, follows a visitor-friendly yet clinically responsible approach to patient care.
While visiting is encouraged to support recovery and emotional wellbeing, there are several important restrictions and policies in place to ensure safety for all.
Protected Mealtimes
Poole Hospital observes protected mealtimes between 12:00–13:00 and 17:00–18:00 across most wards. During these times, visitors are generally not permitted, allowing patients to eat in peace and giving staff the opportunity to assist those who require support.
This policy is part of the NHS-wide initiative to improve nutrition and recovery outcomes. In exceptional cases, such as carers helping patients with meals, arrangements may be made by the ward nurse in charge.
To avoid delays or being turned away temporarily, always plan your visit outside these periods.
Health & Infection Control Policies
To protect vulnerable patients and hospital staff, Poole Hospital has clear infection prevention measures. These include:
- No visits if you’re unwell, especially with symptoms of colds, flu, COVID-19, or diarrhoea and vomiting.
- Hand hygiene: All visitors must sanitise their hands when entering and exiting wards.
- Face coverings: May still be required in high-risk areas like ICU or oncology—check signage or ask staff.
- One-way systems and social distancing may still apply in some areas, depending on current NHS guidance.
These steps help prevent outbreaks and ensure the hospital remains a safe space for healing.
Number of Visitors & Age Limits
In most cases, patients can receive up to two visitors at a time, though flexibility may be granted depending on ward conditions and patient needs.
Children under 12 are generally not allowed to visit unless special permission is granted often based on the patient’s condition or family situation. For maternity and children’s wards, separate rules apply (detailed in the next section).
Visitors may also be asked to rotate or wait in designated areas during busy periods.
Special Wards: Maternity, Children’s, and ICU
Certain departments at Poole Hospital operate with special visiting rules due to the nature of patient care, patient vulnerability, or ward layout. These include maternity units, paediatric wards, and critical care areas like ICU.
Maternity & Neonatal Unit
The maternity unit at Poole Hospital offers open visiting for birthing partners from 10:00 am to 11:00 pm, with two additional visiting sessions for friends and family:
- 14:00–16:00
- 19:00–20:00
Visitors are limited to two at a time (excluding partners), and visits must be quiet, short, and respectful of the needs of other mothers and babies.
Children are allowed only if they are siblings of the newborn and must be supervised at all times. The hospital may implement temporary restrictions during flu season or infection outbreaks, so it’s best to check in advance with the ward.
Children’s Wards & Paediatrics
Parents and legal guardians have unrestricted access to children admitted to paediatric units at Poole Hospital. However, other visitors like siblings or extended family must visit during normal hospital hours and often only with prior arrangement.
To maintain a calming environment:
- Limit visits to two people at a time
- Ensure all child visitors are in good health
- Maintain hygiene and noise control
Visitors may be asked to wait if clinical procedures are in progress.
ICU & High Dependency Units (HDU)
The Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and High Dependency Unit (HDU) at Poole Hospital maintain more stringent visiting procedures. Entry is usually:
- Pre-arranged only, with timings agreed upon with nursing staff
- Restricted to 1–2 visitors per session, depending on patient condition
Due to the critical and sensitive nature of care, visits are often shorter and spaced throughout the day. Masks and PPE may be required depending on the patient’s treatment or infection status.
Visitors are strongly encouraged to call ahead to discuss visiting arrangements and understand what to expect.
How to Plan Your Visit
To ensure your visit to Poole Hospital is as smooth and supportive as possible, it’s essential to plan ahead. From confirming ward hours to navigating parking, these tips will help you arrive informed and prepared.
Contact Information for Wards
Before visiting, it’s strongly advised to contact the specific ward your loved one is on. Visiting policies may change based on infection risks, staffing levels, or patient conditions.
- Poole Hospital Switchboard: 01202 665511
- Ask to be transferred to the patient’s ward or check the University Hospitals Dorset website for direct extensions.
If you’re unsure about items to bring or health-related restrictions, ward staff can offer guidance and clarify current rules.
Directions, Parking & Facilities
Poole Hospital is located on Longfleet Road in Poole, Dorset (postcode BH15 2JB). It is easily accessible via public transport and major road routes.
- Car Parking: On-site parking is available, but spaces are limited during peak times. Be prepared for short walks from nearby car parks.
- Public Transport: Bus services stop close to the main entrance.
- Facilities: On-site amenities include a café, toilets, baby changing, and vending machines.
Arrive at least 15 minutes early to allow time for check-in, hand hygiene, and navigating to the correct ward.
When to Avoid Visiting
Poole Hospital advises visitors to stay home if feeling unwell especially with symptoms of:
- Flu or COVID-19
- Stomach bugs (nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting)
- Fever, coughs, or sore throat
Likewise, visiting during protected mealtimes (12:00–13:00, 17:00–18:00) should be avoided unless authorised.
If the hospital is experiencing a temporary suspension of visiting due to an outbreak or safety alert, announcements will be made on their official website and signage within the hospital.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the visiting hours at Poole Hospital?
Most general wards at Poole Hospital allow visits from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm, seven days a week. Some departments, like ICU or maternity, have specific hours and rules. It’s best to contact the ward directly via 01202 665511 to confirm.
2. Can children visit patients at Poole Hospital?
In general, children under 12 are not permitted to visit unless they are siblings of a newborn in the maternity unit or the visit has been specially arranged. Always check with the ward in advance to avoid disappointment.
3. Do I need to wear a mask or book a time to visit?
Masks are not always required, but may be necessary in high-risk areas like oncology or ICU. While you don’t usually need to book a visiting slot, you should always confirm with the ward, especially for critical care or during periods of infection control.
Conclusion
Understanding Poole Hospital visiting times is key to planning a respectful, safe, and meaningful visit to your loved one.
Most wards are open to visitors from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm, but times may vary especially in maternity, paediatric, or intensive care units.
To ensure the best experience, always check with the relevant ward, avoid protected mealtimes (12:00–13:00, 17:00–18:00), and follow infection control guidelines.
These steps help maintain a supportive environment for all patients and staff.
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