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Visiting hours in the ICU are flexible to meet the needs of the patient, family members and/or significant other. The visiting time are coordinated by the patient’s nurse. The immediate family, significant others and children older than 14 years are allowed to visit. Two to three visitors are allowed in at a time. The needs of the patient will determine how long and how often you may visit. This is dependent upon the patient’s status and may vary frequently during their stay. You many be asked to step out of the unit if an unexpected need occurs, if there is a change in a patient’s condition or if a new patient is being admitted.

Family members do not routinely stay overnight in the patient’s room. Visits during the night may prevent the patient from getting the sleep they need.

When you arrive in the ICU waiting room, if a volunteer is not on duty or outside the ICU, please use the phone in the waiting room or outside the ICU to call into the unit prior to visiting. The nurse taking care of your loved one will let you know whether or not it is a good time to visit. The appropriate number is posted by the phone on the waiting room door. If you are not in the waiting room but know the room number, you can use the following extensions:

Rooms C601 – C606: Extension 6401 Rooms C607 – C612: Extension 6402 Rooms C613 – C620: Extension 6471

Tips on Visiting
Many families coming into the ICU are afraid to touch or talk to their loved one. Touching and talking can be a source of healing for both you and you loved one. So please, go ahead and hold their hand or gently stroke their forehead, if you wish.

We also encourage family members to talk to their loved one. Many patients can hear even if they cannot respond. Don’t be shy about saying you love them. Talk about what is going on at home. These little things make up the fabric of life and keep the patient in touch with you.

If you have any concerns about disturbing the patient or their equipment, ask the nurse. The nurse can help you with talking to and touching your loved one.