Visiting a loved one in the hospital can be a comforting and supportive experience, both for the patient and the visitor. To ensure a smooth visit and to maintain a safe and healing environment, it is important to follow specific visitor guidelines. This guide provides comprehensive information on the visitor guidelines at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, helping visitors understand the protocols and services available to enhance their visit.
Preparing for Your Visit
Visiting Hours
General Visiting Hours
- Standard Hours: Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi has designated visiting hours to ensure patients receive ample rest and care. General visiting hours are from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
- Critical Care Units: For intensive care units (ICUs), visiting hours may be more restricted. It is advisable to check with the specific unit beforehand.
Special Considerations
- Flexible Visiting: In certain circumstances, such as critical conditions or end-of-life care, visiting hours may be extended. Discuss with the healthcare team for special arrangements.
- Quiet Hours: Adhering to quiet hours helps maintain a peaceful environment conducive to healing. Visitors should minimize noise and disruptions during these times.
Health and Safety Protocols
COVID-19 Guidelines
- Mask Requirements: Visitors are required to wear masks at all times within the hospital premises to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other infectious diseases.
- Health Screening: Upon entry, visitors may undergo health screenings, including temperature checks and symptom questionnaires.
Hygiene Practices
- Hand Sanitization: Use hand sanitizers available at entrances and throughout the hospital. Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): In certain areas, visitors may be required to wear additional PPE, such as gowns and gloves, especially in high-risk units.
During Your Visit
Check-In Process
Visitor Registration
- Identification: All visitors must register at the main entrance and present a valid ID for security purposes.
- Visitor Badges: After registration, visitors will receive a visitor badge, which must be worn at all times within the facility.
Wayfinding Assistance
- Information Desks: Information desks are available at the main entrance to assist with directions and general inquiries.
- Signage: Follow the clear signage throughout Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi to navigate to the correct unit or department.
Patient Interaction
Respecting Patient Privacy
- Confidentiality: Respect patient privacy and confidentiality by avoiding discussions of sensitive information in public areas.
- Patient Consent: Obtain consent from the patient before sharing any updates or personal information with others.
Supporting the Patient
- Positive Environment: Create a positive and supportive environment for the patient by offering emotional support and encouragement.
- Patient Needs: Attend to the patient’s needs and preferences, such as adjusting the room temperature or assisting with personal items.
Facilities and Services
Dining Options
- Cafeterias and Cafes: Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi offers a variety of dining options for visitors, including cafeterias and cafes with healthy and diverse menus.
- Vending Machines: For quick snacks and beverages, vending machines are conveniently located throughout the hospital.
Rest Areas
- Visitor Lounges: Comfortable visitor lounges are available on each floor, providing a space to rest and recharge.
- Outdoor Areas: The hospital campus features serene outdoor areas where visitors can take a break and enjoy fresh air.
Wi-Fi Access
- Free Wi-Fi: Complimentary Wi-Fi is available for visitors. Connect to the network using the information provided at the information desks or posted in common areas.
Special Visitor Guidelines
Visiting Special Units
Intensive Care Units (ICU)
- Restricted Access: Due to the critical nature of ICU care, visiting hours are limited and strictly enforced. Check with the ICU staff for specific visiting times.
- Visitor Limits: Typically, only immediate family members are allowed, and the number of visitors may be restricted to maintain a calm environment.
Pediatric Units
- Parental Presence: Parents are encouraged to stay with their child as much as possible. Overnight accommodations may be available for one parent.
- Child-Friendly Environment: Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi provides a child-friendly environment with play areas and activities to comfort young patients.
Maternity Wards
- Visiting Hours: Maternity wards may have extended visiting hours to accommodate family bonding. Confirm specific hours with the ward staff.
- Newborn Safety: Visitors must follow strict hygiene protocols to ensure the safety and health of newborns.
Accommodations for Overnight Visitors
Overnight Stays
- Guest Rooms: Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi may offer guest rooms for family members who need to stay overnight. Availability is limited and may require prior arrangement.
- In-Room Accommodations: In some cases, a reclining chair or sofa bed may be provided in the patient’s room for one family member to stay overnight.
Visitor Policies
- Quiet Hours: Observe quiet hours during overnight stays to respect other patients and allow for restful sleep.
- Personal Belongings: Keep personal belongings organized and minimize clutter in the patient’s room.
Additional Support and Resources
Patient and Family Support Services
Patient Advocacy
- Advocate Access: Patient advocates are available to address any concerns or questions you may have about patient care and hospital policies.
- Resolution Assistance: They can assist in resolving issues and ensuring a positive experience for both patients and visitors.
Social Work Services
- Emotional Support: Social workers provide emotional support and counseling for patients and families dealing with illness or hospitalization.
- Resource Coordination: They help coordinate resources such as financial assistance, community services, and discharge planning.
Spiritual Care
Chaplain Services
- Spiritual Support: Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi offers chaplain services to provide spiritual support for patients and families of all faiths.
- Prayer Rooms: Dedicated prayer rooms are available for visitors seeking a quiet space for reflection and prayer.
Cultural Sensitivity
- Cultural Practices: The hospital respects and accommodates diverse cultural practices and traditions. Inform the staff of any specific needs or preferences.
- Interpreter Services: Language interpreter services are available to assist non-English-speaking patients and visitors.
Feedback and Improvement
Patient Satisfaction Surveys
- Survey Participation: Participate in patient satisfaction surveys to provide feedback on your experience. This helps Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi improve its services.
- Anonymous Feedback: Surveys can be completed anonymously to ensure honest and open feedback.
Suggestions and Complaints
- Suggestion Boxes: Suggestion boxes are located throughout the hospital for visitors to submit feedback and suggestions.
- Complaint Resolution: For any complaints, contact the patient relations department to seek resolution and address concerns promptly.
Departure and Follow-Up
Checking Out
Visitor Badge Return
- Return Badges: Upon departure, return your visitor badge at the main entrance or designated drop-off points.
- Exit Procedures: Follow any specific exit procedures, particularly in critical care units or after-hours.
Patient Discharge
- Discharge Planning: Assist the patient with discharge planning, including transportation and follow-up care instructions.
- Medication Review: Ensure all prescribed medications are obtained from the pharmacy and understood before leaving.
Staying Connected
Follow-Up Visits
- Scheduling Visits: Schedule follow-up visits as needed, adhering to the visiting hours and guidelines.
- Ongoing Support: Continue providing emotional and practical support to the patient during recovery.
Communication Channels
- Phone and Email: Stay connected with healthcare providers through phone or email for any ongoing questions or concerns.
- Patient Portals: Utilize patient portals for accessing medical records, appointment scheduling, and direct communication with the healthcare team.
Visiting a loved one at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi is a meaningful way to provide support and encouragement during their hospital stay. By following the visitor guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and positive experience for both yourself and the patient. From understanding visiting hours and health protocols to utilizing available services and providing feedback, these guidelines help create a safe and supportive environment. Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi is committed to enhancing the patient and visitor experience, ensuring that every visit contributes positively to the healing process.
