We understand how important it is to stay connected with loved ones during their time in the hospital. To make your visit as smooth as possible, here’s everything you need to know:
Face masks
Flu is going around in our community and we are taking simple steps to help protect patients, visitors and staff.
We are strengthening reminders about the simple things that help reduce the spread of infection. This includes good hand hygiene, covering coughs and sneezes, not attending if you are unwell and encouraging the use of face masks in some clinical areas, especially around vulnerable patients.
Wearing a mask is not needed everywhere. Some people may choose to wear one and that is fine. Masks can help reduce the spread of infection and may provide reassurance to others.
Our approach is guided by local Trust data and clinical advice, and we keep the situation under regular review to make sure our response remains proportionate to what we are seeing in Gateshead and our data.
If you have flu or feel unwell, please do not visit the hospital unless it is essential. If you do need to attend, wearing a mask, cleaning your hands and covering coughs and sneezes can help protect others.
Thank you for helping to keep everyone safe.
Visiting hours
- Visiting times vary by ward, with two visitors allowed during visiting hours. Please check with the ward for specific times.
- Maternity: For visiting details, please see our maternity services page.
- Outpatients and diagnostics: Patients can bring someone to accompany them.
- Emergency Department (A&E): One supporter is allowed to accompany patients. However, if the department becomes too busy, we may ask supporters to wait outside.
Infection prevention and control
To help us keep everyone safe:
- Wash your hands with soap and water or use the hand gel provided when you enter and leave the ward.
- If you feel unwell, have a cough, or other symptoms, it’s best not to visit. If you’re unsure, please speak to the nurse in charge.
In some high-risk areas, like critical care or cancer wards, you may be asked to wear a face mask to protect vulnerable patients.
Talking to us
If you have questions about how we are looking after your loved one, please ask to speak to the nurse in charge. We are here to provide information and support.
Carers and support
If you are caring for someone in hospital, please let us know. We will:
- Involve you in their care, including treatment plans and discharge arrangements.
- Discuss visiting arrangements and meal support if needed.
We also offer a Carers’ Passport, which provides benefits such as parking assistance and refreshments on the ward.
Personal items and valuables
To keep belongings safe, please avoid bringing valuables like jewellery or large amounts of money. The hospital cannot be responsible for any items that go missing.
Using mobile phones
You are welcome to use your mobile phone, but please:
- Avoid taking pictures, videos, or recordings in the hospital.
- Use your phone quietly to avoid disturbing others.
Meeting individual needs
If you need additional support during your visit:
- Let us know if you require an interpreter or have specific accessibility needs.
- Our Chaplains are available to provide emotional and spiritual support for all faiths and beliefs.
Staying in touch when you can’t visit
If you’re unable to visit in person, we offer several ways to stay connected with your loved one:
- Message Service: Send a personal message to your loved one through our service.
- Bedside Phone Calls: Arrange a call directly to their bedside.
- Virtual Visits: Connect through video calls.
For more details, please contact our Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS):
- Phone: 0800 9530667
- Email: [email protected]
PALS is available Monday to Friday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm.
We hope this information helps you feel more prepared for your visit. Your support and understanding help us ensure the safety and comfort of all patients, staff, and visitors.