On the ward
Each ward has its own routine and the staff will be happy to answer any questions you have and to discuss any concerns. A file is available on every ward giving basic information and most wards have a board with photographs of the staff working there.
There are some things about your stay in hospital which will probably apply no matter which ward you are on.
Meals at Chelsea and Westminster
Please tell your named nurse if you have any special dietary requirements. Special menus are available to cater for vegetarian and cultural needs. You should complete the menu sheet on the day you arrive. It will be your choice for lunch and supper the next day.
Breakfast is served from 7:30–8am.
Chelsea and Westminster Hospital has protected lunchtimes:
- On adult wards lunchtime is from 12:30–1:30pm
- On children’s wards lunchtime is from 12:15-12:45pm
Any member of staff or visitor to the hospital who is on a ward or entering a ward at lunchtime will be asked to return when lunch is over—unless their attendance is clinically important or if they are assisting patients to eat.
Supper is served from 5:30–6:15pm.
Tea and coffee are served during the day.
No Smoking Policy
Chelsea and Westminster Hospital operates a strict No Smoking Policy.
Mobile phones
We ask that mobile phones are switched off in certain areas of the hospital. Mobile phones may be used in the main public areas of the hospital. There are signs in areas where you must switch off your phone.
Bedside TV, radio, telephone and internet
All inpatients have access to a bedside entertainment system which provides pay-as-you-go services including TV, radio, telephone and internet. This service is provided by Hospedia. For more information visit the Hospedia website.
Staff identification
All staff should wear an ID badge including their photograph to help you identify who everybody is.
Patient identification
When you are admitted you will be given a wristband with your name and patient number. Please check your details are correct and inform ward staff if they are not.
Moving around the hospital
Sometimes you may leave the ward or hospital for tests or investigations. If so, staff will arrange an appropriate escort.
You should always let the nurse in charge know if you want to leave the ward or hospital for any reason, and how long you expect to be away. You may be advised by staff not to leave without an escort. This is for your safety and wellbeing.
Infection control
All patients and visitors should use the alcohol gel provided to clean their hands as they enter and leave any ward or department in the hospital. Using the gel kills germs and helps prevent the spread of infection.
Interpreting services
As part of our commitment to ensuring equal access to our services and facilities, the Trust offers a free professional interpreting service for our patients.
If you require interpreting services your GPs should inform the Trust when referring you for treatment, so that an interpreter can be booked in advance. Where this is not possible, ask (or have a friend or relative ask) your ward or department to arrange an interpreter.
Some staff you will meet
Nurses
On admission to the ward you will be allocated a named nurse who will be responsible for your nursing care during your stay. Other nurses and healthcare assistants will look after you when your named nurse is off duty.
At the start of every shift you can expect the nurse who will be looking after you to come and introduce themselves, so you always know who to call.
Every ward has a Sister/Charge Nurse who is responsible for the overall management of the area. Don't hesitate to ask to see them if you have any questions or concerns.
Doctors
The name of your Consultant is usually shown above your bed. He/she will visit you regularly, but you will also be seen by other doctors in the team. They will discuss your medical condition and treatment with you. Make a note of any questions you want to ask.
Pharmacists
Pharmacists will visit you daily to check that your medication is correct and that you have enough supplies. Please do not hestitate to ask them if you have any questions regarding your medication.
Social workers
Social workers are based in the hospital and can give advice, support or practical help to patients and their families. Please ask your named nurse to refer you. Their hours of opening are 9am–5pm Mondays to Thursdays and 9am–4:45pm Fridays. A duty social worker is available for emergencies if you are unable to wait for an appointment time.
Students
Chelsea and Westminster Hospital is a teaching hospital. We have students from Imperial College School of Medicine. We also have trainee nurses and students in other professions such as physiotherapy. We hope you will agree to be seen by these students. You have the right to refuse to take part in teaching work if you wish. Your treatment will not be affected in any way.
