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SMH Introduces Flexible Visiting Hours

MEDIA RELEASE                                                                     CONTACT INFO:

April 11, 2017                                                                          Carrie Jeffreys, VP Patient Services &

                                                                                                Chief Nursing Executive

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                      cjeffreys@smhosp.on.ca

 

 

Stevenson Memorial Hospital Introducing Flexible Visiting Hours

 

[ALLISTON, ONTARIO]— Building on our commitment to create and foster a Patient and Family centered environment, Stevenson Memorial Hospital will introduce flexible visiting hours for patients and or partners in care as of April 3, 2017.

 

Stevenson Memorial recognizes that families, friends and other support members contribute to positive health outcomes and a positive patient experience.

 

Stevenson Memorial has eliminated set visiting hours and welcomes family members, as defined by the patient, as partners in care.

 

Research shows that families and or partners in care improve Patient Safety. This includes reducing falls by 35% and falls resulting in injury by 65%, reducing heart rate in patients with cardiovascular illness and reduces anxiety for our patients.

“Through 24/7 open visiting hours, we encourage and support patients and families in participating in care and decision making at the level they are comfortable, says Carrie Jeffreys, Vice President, Patient Care and Chief Nursing Executive.   “It is our priority to ensure we place patients and families at the center of everything we do here at Stevenson.”

Families and other partners in care are welcome 24 hours a day according to patient preference. Children supervised by an adult are welcome.

Family supporting a patient between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. are asked to stay in the patient’s room and advise staff when leaving. The Main entrance is the entry and exit point during these hours.

For larger families, with the advice of our Patient and Family Advisory council, we have been able to create a small comfortable seating area within the cafeteria so that patient rooms do not become congested.

“The entire Patient & Family Advisory Council Team has and will continue to work diligently in making the patient and family experience the best possible.  We trust this new visitation space in the hospital will brighten up the patient and families experience at Stevenson Memorial, says Steve Lange, Chair of the Patient & Family Advisory Council.”

 

During a declared infection outbreak (i.e., influenza) or other hospital emergency, visiting may be restricted or cancelled to ensure patient and staff safety.

All family and visitors will be required to follow hand hygiene and personal protective equipment protocols.

Stevenson Memorial: We champion your care… every step of the way.