Updated visiting – antenatal and postnatal
Siblings of the baby can visiting for one hour a day from 10am to 8pm avoiding mealtimes. This will be arranged on admission.
Two visitors can attend between 2.30pm and 3.30pm and 7pm and 8pm. No other children.
Visiting for partners remains 10am to 8pm.
Our aim is to provide individualised care for you and your baby, supporting you in your transition into parenthood.
We are always here to help you – please just ask us.
Can my birthing partner stay with me?
To help promote a family bonding and a positive postnatal experience you may wish to have your partner or a nominated companion stay with you during the day on your admission to ward 17.
Your visitor will be provided with a chair but will need to make their own arrangements for meals.
Your named midwife will discuss your companion staying to ensure they feel able to adhere to our guidance to ensure the safety and privacy for all patients.
We ask you kindly to follow our rules (for example not getting onto patient beds) to ensure the safety, privacy and hygiene of the new mums on the ward and staff.
Transitional care
Neonatal Transitional Care (NTC) supports keeping mothers and babies together. It enables babies who have additional care requirements to be looked after by their mother with the support from the midwifery and neonatal team.
If your baby requires NTC your named midwife will discuss your baby’s individual care needs. Families who are admitted to the NTC area within the postnatal ward will generally require an extended stay (on average three to five days).
Relocation to transitional care will occur if your baby is:
- Preterm
- Has a low birth weight (below 2.5kg)
- Requiring any observations, medications, investigations or treatment
- Preparing to go home following an admission to the neonatal unit
All staff members are fully trained and here to support you with your cares. We aim to avoid unnecessary separation of you and your baby.
Your baby’s individual care plan should be explained to you by your midwife or the neonatal team, if you have any questions don’t hesitate to ask.
Your baby will be reviewed by the neonatal team (in the green uniform), they will make the decisions regarding your baby’s care plan and discharge date. The protocols that we have in place are for your baby’s health and well being. We are happy to explain these protocols to you and your family.
Postnatal discharge
We will always aim to discharge you in a safe and timely manner. We understand that you are keen to go home with your new baby.
Unfortunately, it is not always possible to be discharged as quickly as you would hope for a variety of reasons. If you have any questions about your length of stay, please ask your midwife
Following discharge midwifery care is transferred to the community midwifery service. Any questions in between visits from your midwife are welcomed via the maternity advice line.
Tel: 01642 854517