Improving visiting times for patients & their families on Rendcomb Ward

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Background & Problem

Rendcomb Ward is a 22 bedded Oncology/Haematology ward. As a ward we had received feedback from PALS and other sources that our visiting times were not always flexible enough. Visiting times sometimes caused dissatisfaction when visitors were asked to leave in the gap between visiting times. We wanted to improve this to make it a better experience for all.

Aim

To identify & understand patients, visitors and staff views of visiting times in a three month period on Rendcomb Ward.

Method

The study used questionnaires for patients & visitors and a staff feedback comments board to ascertain baseline data on current visiting times. Based on the feedback we then trialled flexible visiting times. Following the trial we sent out further questionnaires and sought staff feedback. We widely publicised our project and engaged staff, patients and visitors through displays & posters.

Results

The new visiting times that we trialled had positive feedback. Staff felt working relations with patients and visitors had greatly improved.

There were no complaints from PALS or from the patient survey relating to visiting times.

Patients & visitors felt communication had improved as a result.

Feedback made us aware that visitors were not aware of the Carer’s Passport and this is something which we need to promote.

Implications

As a result of feedback we widely promoted the Carer’s Passport, led by our palliative care key worker.

We purchased more visiting chairs.

We now have the use of two overnight rooms for visitors.

Our balcony has been transformed for patients & visitors to sit and relax.