Visiting hours : 2pm - 8pm
Visiting is encouraged in the afternoon and evening, allowing the 'business' part of the day to be completed as efficiently as possible earlier on.
Due to space restrictions, we ask that no more than two people are present at the bedside at any time. There is a waiting area outside ITU with hot drinks and toilet facilities available.
Finding Us
ITU/HDU is located on the first floor of the main building. Take the lifts/stairs to the first floor and follow signs for Richmond Ward/ITU and HDU (turn right on leaving the lifts). At the end of the corridor, press the entry buzzer at the double doors and wait for the receptionist to buzz you in. At reception, let the receptionist know you are here and who you have come to see. They will be able to let you know if your friend or relative is able to see visitors.
What to Expect
It is always difficult coming to ITU for the first time. During your visits, you can talk to and touch the patient as you normally would, even if they are sedated, as the patient may still be able to hear and feel you.
If the patient is awake but has a breathing tube or has recently had the tube removed, speaking can be very difficult. Try giving them a pen and large pad of paper. Keep exchanges simple. Questions with shorter answers are easier!
It is very important in ITU that risk of infections to the patients is kept to the minimum. Therefore we ask visitors to follow the guidance on Infection Control
Discussions with the ITU Team
Since a very sick patient’s condition might change very quickly, we understand you would like to have frequent updates. The doctors and nurses are always happy to answer any questions you have. If you would like to discuss your relative's care, it is better to find out when the unit is likely to be less busy when the staff will be able to spend more time with you.
Except in situations of immediate life saving emergencies, next of kin are always involved in decisions related to major treatment options.
If the patient has a large circle of family and friends, it is easier if one person acts as a spokesperson to have clearer communication with the ITU team and avoid misunderstandings. This will also enable the you to plan appropriate additional questions for the doctors and nurses and participate in making treatment decisions.
Gifts and Presents
It may be hard to know what to bring someone in ITU. Some suggestions are
ñ Personal items such as toiletries
ñ Music tapes or voice tapes from the family
ñ Photographs, artwork and cards from the family
Please Note:
Food and Drink: Patients may not be able to eat or drink properly whilst on ITU so please check with the nurse looking after your friend or relative before bringing in food or drink. If they are eating and drinking, bringing in their favourite food will help them continue their recovery.
Flowers Fresh flowers and plants are not permitted on the unit as they can spread infection to the patients.
Young Visitors
Children are permitted to visit under supervision. However, younger children may find the ITU environment intimidating or distressing.
Very young babies cannot be brought into the unit unless there are exceptional circumstances as their immune system is still immature and there is a small chance of developing a severe infection. Please discuss this with the nurse in charge.
Using Telephones and the Internet
The use of mobile phones is only permitted in non-ward areas. Using a mobile on ITU may interfere with sensitive equipment and cause it to malfunction.
There is no WiFi or internet connection at West Middlesex, but local internet cafés are nearby.
Parking
Parking is available in either the Pay and Display or Pay on Foot car parks around the hospital.
A reduction in your car parking charges is available if your relative is here for a longer period of time. Please ask a member of the ITU staff for more information.
