Royal Alexandra Hospital Visiting Times are essential to know before planning your visit to a loved one in Paisley’s main NHS facility.
Standard visiting hours typically run from 10 am to 8 pm across most adult wards, while specialised areas like the neonatal unit offer 24/7 access for parents. However, policies can vary depending on the ward, patient condition, or ongoing infection control measures.
Are you unsure when you’re allowed to visit, or what to expect on arrival? From flexible arrangements in mental health wards to restrictions during outbreaks, understanding hospital rules helps you avoid disappointment and ensures a smooth visit.
This guide outlines everything you need from confirmed visiting times and contact info to ward-specific exceptions so you can arrive informed, prepared, and respectful of patient care.
Let’s explore the latest visiting times and rules at Royal Alexandra Hospital, part of NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde.
Royal Alexandra Hospital Visiting Times
The Royal Alexandra Hospital (RAH) in Paisley operates under NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde and generally follows the board’s standard visiting hours.
For most adult wards, visiting is allowed between 10:00 am and 8:00 pm, giving families and friends ample time to support loved ones during their hospital stay. This extended schedule promotes patient wellbeing, allowing for a more flexible and compassionate visiting experience.
However, visiting hours are not uniform across all departments. Certain wards such as intensive care, maternity, or mental health units may apply tailored rules to meet specific care needs.
Additionally, during periods of high infection risk, such as a flu or norovirus outbreak, NHS boards may temporarily restrict visiting to essential access only, including for end-of-life, vulnerable, or critical care patients.
To avoid any disruption, visitors are strongly advised to contact the ward directly prior to arriving. This ensures you are aware of the most up-to-date rules and any relevant safety guidance in place.
Ward-Specific Visiting Rules
Ward 39
Ward 39 at Royal Alexandra Hospital has been positively highlighted for its extended and inclusive visiting policy. As of the latest available information, this ward maintains open visiting hours from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm, seven days a week. This allows visitors to plan their time more flexibly while ensuring patients receive consistent emotional and social support.
Feedback from recent monitoring visits praises the ward for fostering a welcoming environment, noting that the open hours do not interfere with clinical routines. Ward staff work actively to manage visitations to balance patient care and comfort, ensuring privacy and rest periods are respected where needed.
While Ward 39 sets a commendable standard, visitors should still confirm details before visiting especially if the patient is newly admitted or the hospital has implemented temporary safety measures.
Neonatal Unit Visiting Times
The Neonatal Unit at Royal Alexandra Hospital provides critical care for premature and unwell newborns, and its visiting policy reflects the importance of parental presence.
In line with NHS guidance and neonatal care best practices, there are no fixed visiting hours for this unit parents and birth partners have unrestricted 24/7 access to their babies.
To maintain safety and comfort within the ward, a maximum of two visitors per baby is permitted at any given time, and one must always be a parent.
This rule ensures the neonatal team can manage the space effectively while minimising infection risk. Siblings are generally allowed to visit, though children under 16 who are not siblings are typically restricted.
This flexible policy supports parent-infant bonding, particularly in stressful and sensitive circumstances. However, strict hygiene protocols are in place visitors may be asked to wear gowns, sanitise hands thoroughly, and follow any unit-specific instructions provided by the care team.
If you’re planning a visit to the Neonatal Unit, especially during an infectious outbreak period, it’s essential to call ahead to confirm the current visiting arrangements and whether additional PPE or testing may be required.
Mental Health, ICU & End-of-Life Exceptions
Certain wards at Royal Alexandra Hospital including mental health units, intensive care (ICU), and areas handling end-of-life care enforce more nuanced and sensitive visiting policies. These exceptions are in place to support clinical needs, protect vulnerable patients, and allow for compassionate care under controlled conditions.
In mental health wards, visiting hours may vary depending on the therapeutic structure of the unit. For example, some wards may prioritise treatment schedules during the day and allow visitors during specific afternoon or evening windows.
Staff often encourage family involvement as part of a patient’s recovery, but all visits must be arranged in advance to ensure appropriateness and supervision if needed.
The ICU tends to restrict visits to shorter, scheduled periods due to the critical condition of patients and the need to maintain a sterile, calm environment. In most cases, only close family members are permitted, and PPE such as gowns or gloves may be required.
For patients receiving end-of-life care, Royal Alexandra Hospital takes a compassionate and flexible approach. Visiting may be allowed outside normal hours, including late evenings or overnight stays for immediate family. These decisions are made on a case-by-case basis and coordinated with clinical teams.
Because these wards operate under changing conditions, it is essential to speak directly with nursing staff or the ward manager. They can provide clear guidance tailored to the patient’s condition and the hospital’s current safety measures.
Infection Control & Temporary Restrictions
Maintaining patient safety through infection control is a high priority at Royal Alexandra Hospital, especially during outbreaks of contagious illnesses such as COVID-19, norovirus, or seasonal flu. These periods often lead to temporary visiting restrictions to protect vulnerable patients and reduce the risk of spreading infections.
During such outbreaks, the hospital may limit visits to essential visits only. This typically means visits are allowed primarily for close family members of patients in critical care, those receiving end-of-life care, or patients who are particularly vulnerable due to their medical conditions.
Visitors may be required to wear personal protective equipment (PPE), such as masks and gowns, and follow strict hand hygiene protocols.
Even outside of outbreak periods, visitors are encouraged to practise good hygiene by sanitising their hands on entry and exit and avoiding visits if they are unwell or exhibiting symptoms of contagious diseases.
Visitors should always check the latest guidance on the Royal Alexandra Hospital website or contact the relevant ward before attending to confirm any restrictions in place. This helps ensure a safe environment for patients, staff, and visitors alike.
Practical Information for Visitors
Planning a visit to Royal Alexandra Hospital can be smoother when you’re prepared with essential details about the hospital’s location, parking, and visitor requirements.
Location & Access: The hospital is located on Corsebar Road, Paisley. Clear signage directs visitors to the main entrances and specific wards. It’s advisable to arrive a little early to navigate the hospital’s layout comfortably, especially if you’re visiting a specialised unit.
Parking: Visitor parking is available on-site but can be limited during peak hours. It’s recommended to check the hospital’s parking policies beforehand. Some areas may require payment or have time restrictions. Disabled parking bays are provided close to main entrances for convenience.
Visitor Registration: On arrival, you might be asked to sign in at the ward reception or main hospital desk. This helps staff monitor visitor numbers and maintain safety standards.
What to Bring: Bring a valid form of ID, and if possible, the patient’s details (name, ward number) to ease check-in. Due to infection control, avoid bringing unnecessary items.
Preparation Tips:
- Confirm visiting hours and any restrictions by calling the ward directly.
- Be aware of hospital etiquette keep noise low, respect privacy, and follow staff instructions.
- If visiting during an outbreak, carry masks and hand sanitiser as a precaution.
Being informed in advance not only helps protect patients but also makes your visit less stressful and more meaningful.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the current visiting times for Royal Alexandra Hospital?
Visiting times for most adult wards at Royal Alexandra Hospital are typically from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm. However, specific wards such as the Neonatal Unit offer 24/7 access for parents, and some areas like ICU or mental health wards have different policies. It’s best to check with the individual ward before visiting.
2. Can children visit patients at Royal Alexandra Hospital?
Children are generally allowed to visit but may face restrictions depending on the ward. For example, siblings are welcome in the Neonatal Unit, but other wards might restrict visits from children under 16, especially during infection outbreaks. Always confirm the rules with the ward team before bringing children.
3. What happens to visiting arrangements during infection outbreaks like COVID-19?
During outbreaks, the hospital may limit visiting to essential visits only. Visitors might need to wear PPE, follow strict hand hygiene, and comply with any temporary restrictions to protect patients. It’s important to check current guidance with the hospital before attending.
Conclusion
Understanding the Royal Alexandra Hospital visiting times is crucial for planning a smooth and respectful visit to loved ones in Paisley’s NHS facility.
While most adult wards welcome visitors between 10 am and 8 pm, specialised units such as the Neonatal Unit offer more flexible access to support families during sensitive care.
Always remember that visiting rules may vary by ward and can change during infection outbreaks to prioritise patient safety.
To ensure a positive experience, it’s wise to confirm the latest visiting hours and any restrictions directly with the hospital ward before you go. Preparing in advance by knowing the hospital layout, parking options, and hygiene guidelines will help make your visit as comfortable and meaningful as possible.
If you found this guide helpful, explore more visiting times for other NHS hospitals across the UK on our site or share this article with family and friends who might benefit.
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