Sunnybrook General Hospital
Visitor Access Plan

Date: January 1, 2070
Plan Version: 1.0

1. Purpose of the Plan

This Visitor Access Plan aims to outline the protocols and guidelines for managing visitor access within Sunnybrook General Hospital. The plan prioritizes the health, safety, and well-being of our patients, visitors, and staff while providing clear instructions for a smooth and efficient visitation process. This plan is adaptable to changing health guidelines, emerging technologies, and the hospital’s evolving needs.

2. Visitor Access Areas

• General Visiting Areas: Visitors are permitted in designated spaces such as patient rooms, public waiting areas, and lobbies, during normal visiting hours.

• Restricted Access Areas: Visitors will not have access to high-security or specialized areas like the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), operating rooms, labs, and emergency departments, except under specific conditions and with prior staff approval.

3. Visitor Identification

• Registration Process: All visitors are required to check in at the main visitor reception or designated entry points, where identification and contact details will be recorded.

• Visitor Badges: A visitor ID badge will be issued upon registration and must be visibly worn at all times during the visit.

• Visitation Log: A detailed log of visitors will be kept for each patient, helping in tracking visits for safety and contact-tracing purposes.

4. Visitation Hours

• Standard Visitation Hours:

  • Weekdays: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM

  • Weekends: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

• Extended Visitation Hours: Special accommodations may be made in case of compassionate visits, for patients in palliative care, or for families with specific needs. Approval from the nursing staff or the attending physician will be required.

• Holiday Hours: On public holidays, visiting hours may be adjusted. Please refer to our website or contact the hospital for updated schedules.

5. Visitor Limitations

• Number of Visitors per Patient: The hospital allows up to 3 visitors per patient at any given time to ensure comfort and safety. Exceptions may be made based on individual needs or circumstances.

• Age Restrictions: Visitors under the age of 14 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Children under 3 are generally discouraged unless visiting for urgent reasons or special family events.

• Special Accommodations: Families of patients with critical conditions, such as those in intensive care, may request additional visitation privileges after consulting with hospital management.

6. Health & Safety Protocols

• Health Screening: All visitors will undergo a health screening, including a temperature check and symptom review, before entering the hospital. Those showing symptoms of illness (such as fever, cough, or fatigue) will be asked to postpone their visit.

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Depending on the unit and the patient’s condition, visitors may be required to wear personal protective equipment such as face masks, gloves, or gowns. PPE requirements will be communicated upon arrival.

• Sanitization Stations: Hand sanitizing stations will be available throughout the hospital for visitors. All visitors must sanitize their hands before entering patient rooms and high-traffic areas.

7. Visitor Conduct

• Behavior Guidelines: Visitors are expected to act with respect and courtesy. Disruptive, inappropriate, or aggressive behavior will not be tolerated and may result in immediate removal from the premises.

• Supervision of Children: Children must remain under the supervision of an adult at all times. For safety reasons, they are not allowed to roam unattended in patient areas or common spaces.

8. Emergency Access Protocol

In case of an emergency, such as a life-threatening health situation or natural disaster, visitor access may be temporarily restricted or adjusted. Emergency protocols will be implemented as necessary to ensure patient and visitor safety.

• Authorized Emergency Visitors: In the event of critical care or emergency procedures, authorized family members may be granted temporary access following hospital clearance.

• Evacuation Procedures: Visitors should follow hospital staff instructions in the event of an evacuation. Visitor flow will be managed to ensure a safe and efficient exit from the facility.

9. Technology-Enhanced Visitation

• Virtual Visits: In the case of patient isolation, or if a visitor cannot attend in person, virtual visitation via video conferencing platforms will be facilitated to ensure continued emotional support.

• Telemedicine Support: Family members and loved ones will be encouraged to use telemedicine services when necessary to stay connected with the healthcare team for consultations.

10. Compliance & Enforcement

• Staff Responsibilities: All hospital staff will actively monitor visitor adherence to the guidelines outlined in this plan. Any failure to comply with these protocols may result in restricted access or removal from the facility.

• Visitor Education: Signage and information materials about the Visitor Access Plan will be made available in key areas of the hospital and shared upon visitor check-in.

11. Review and Continuous Improvement

This plan will be reviewed annually, beginning on January 1, 2071, to evaluate its effectiveness and make necessary adjustments in line with the latest public health guidelines, hospital needs, and technological advancements. Feedback from staff, patients, and visitors will be used to continually improve the hospital’s visitor policies.

Approved by:

[Your Name]
Chief Operations Officer
Sunnybrook General Hospital

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