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Family reaction and role
The Burn Treatment Center staff understands this is a
stressful time for family and close friends of patients and
encourages them to ask questions. Family and visitors are
also encouraged to take care of themselves by getting
adequate rest and nutrition and leaving the hospital when
possible. If there is any doubt whether someone should stay
at the hospital, please consult the medical or nursing
staff.
One family member or friend may have the option of
staying in the hospital room with the patient as an
"attendant." An attendant assists the patient with daily
routines such as feeding, exercise, and recreational
activities. Attendant status is approved by the patient's
nurse and is dependent upon the patient's needs and medical
condition. If a patient requires an attendant, but it is not
possible for the attendant to stay in the room, other
arrangements can be made for housing within the hospital
complex. Attendants needing shower and dressing rooms should
ask for assistance at the Burn Treatment Center nursing
station.
If you need lodging accommodations, the Information Desk
in the Main Lobby can provide a list of local hotels and
motels. Parents of, children may request referral to the
Ronald McDonald
House. The social
worker can also provide additional lodging
information.
Patient condition report
To inquire about a patient's condition, immediate family
members may call the Burn Treatment Center nursing station
at 319-356-2496, 24 hours a day, and speak to the nurse
caring for the patient. These family members should identify
themselves and give the patient's name. Condition reports
are given only to immediate family members. The staff
prefers that one or two family members be designated to
inquire about a patient's condition. These family members
can then relay the information to others. Friends must
contact the family for information about a patient's
condition.
Visitor information
Visiting Hours
Because care for burn injuries is unique, visiting hours
will be arranged between the patient's nurse and family
members. The number of visitors allowed in the patient's
room depends upon the patient's condition. It may be helpful
to note that most patients receive treatment for their
injuries in the mornings and may not be ready for visitors
until after 11 a.m. Children may visit with permission from
the nurse. It is important to understand that visiting times
may be restricted when a patient is critically ill or during
patient care procedures. Visiting is also limited during a
patient's rest period.
Burn Treatment Center Patient and
Family Lounge
The Patient and Family Lounge is located just inside the
front doors of the Burn Treatment Center. Family and friends
should use this area to wait while a patient is being
admitted. Physicians and nurses will provide updates about
your family member's condition once admission procedures are
completed.
Visitors are advised not to spend the night in the
lounge. University Hospitals is a smoke-free environment.
Smoking inside UI Health Care is strictly prohibited.
Smoking areas are available on the Colloton and Carver
Pavilion patios.
Infection Control
Visitors must wash their hands upon entering the Burn
Treatment Center and when leaving a patient's room. Children
and adults visiting the Burn Treatment Center must be free
of active colds, infections, or diseases. Immunizations must
also be up-to-date.
When holding children or having physical contact with
patients, visitors should wear gown and gloves (provided by
the nursing staff) to protect patients from bacteria carried
on clothing. Also, items from one patient's room cannot be
taken to another patient's room.
It is requested that no food be stored in the patient's
room, but can be stored in a refrigerator in the units
nourishment area. Fresh flowers, plants and balloons are
permitted in the patients room.
Telephones/Messages
There is a pay phone in the hallway by Elevator G. Other
telephones are located in the Main Lobby. Incoming calls for
family members should be directed to 319- 356-2496. Each
hospital room has a telephone for patient use. For questions
regarding a patient's condition, please call the nursing
station at 319-356-2496.
Personal Belongings
Valuables and other belongings should be taken home.
Patients' valuables may be stored in the hospital safe
located in the Cashier's Office: General
Hospital First Floor, main hallway, left side, 6-2329
Privacy
Respect for the privacy of patients and their family does
not permit the Burn Treatment Center staff to answer
questions about conditions of other patients.
The University Hospitals philosophy of personalized care
is explained by our UI Health Care Guiding Principles of
Patient Care. Copies are available from your nursing unit or
the Patient
Representative Office.
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