Beginning a stay on an inpatient ward can be an anxious time and
the Trust will do everything possible to make you comfortable and
relaxed. If you have any questions or concerns about your stay or
need more information then ward staff will be happy to discuss this
with you.
Below is some useful information about staying on a ward.
On arrival
When you arrive onto an inpatient ward you will be told the name
of the nurse who will be in charge of your care during your stay,
although other nurses will also help you. At the start of every
shift, the nurse who will be responsible for your care will come
and introduce him or herself.
Photos of all staff are displayed on the ward and every member of
staff wears a badge with a photograph, their name and their job
title.
On arrival you will be given a tour of the ward and shown where to
find bathrooms and toilets, where to watch television and where the
telephones are. Our smoking policy will also be explained to
you.
If you feel comfortable enough to meet some of the other patients
then we will introduce you to them, although this is up to
you.
When you arrive on the ward a nurse will make a note of all items
that you have brought in, and we may ask to search your bag. If you
have any items that are not allowed on the ward such as sharp
objects or alcohol then these will be taken off you. This is for
your own safety and that of other people on the ward. A full list
of items that are not allowed on the ward is further down the
page.
Your care
Shortly after arriving on an inpatient ward you will have a
private meeting with a nurse and doctor to discuss how you're
feeling and what might help you to feel better. This is to help us
to decide on the appropriate course of care to aid your
recovery.
Also, because the physical as well as mental health of our service
users is important to us a doctor will, with your consent, carry
out a physical health test. Questions asked could include whether
you suffer from conditions such as diabetes or whether you smoke,
drink or take drugs.
What should I bring with me?
Our wards will have limited supplies of toiletries but it is
recommended that you bring the following items to make you
comfortable during your stay:
- several changes of underwear and a few changes of clothing and
shoes
- nightwear, dressing gown and slippers
- toiletries: toothpaste and brush, soap, body creams, comb,
shower/bath gel, shampoo, deodorant, make-up, shaving
things and aftershave, tissues, wet wipes
- towels
- diary, notebook, writing materials
- mug and own supply of preferred tea or coffee, powdered
milk
- family photos
- coins for use of the public telephone
What am I not allowed to bring?
To ensure your safety and that of other people on the ward the
following items are not allowed:
- Sharp objects such as knives, scissors and razors
- Alcohol
- Non-prescribed or illicit drugs. Staff will contact the Police
if illegal drugs are found
Patients are also not allowed to bring valuables and large
amounts of money onto the ward for security reasons.
Visitors
The Trust understands the importance of being able to see family
and friends while staying on an inpatient ward and visitors are
welcome during visiting hours.
These will vary from ward to ward so please ask your named nurse or
ward manager for details.
Confidentiality
Confidentiality is strictly maintained at all times and patients
and relatives/carers can be sure that all information held is
restricted and never made available to unauthorised persons.
Healthcare students
The Trust works closely with the University of Manchester and so
that students get practical experience we involve them in the care
and treatment of patients.
If you do not want students to be involved in your care please
inform your doctor or nurse. Your care will not be affected in any
way by your decision.
Further information
All wards have a ward manager or charge nurse and Clinical practice
leaders who are responsible for managing the ward. You can ask to
see them if you need further information or have any concerns.