Here are some general guidelines for family members and friends of young patients who are receiving care on the Saint Joseph's Hospital Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU).

• For the first 24 hours following admission, we ask that only parents/legal guardians visit the patient to allow the care team to settle and stabilize your child.
• Once stable, limit visitors to three immediate family members only. One of the three must be a parent unless previously arranged with the nurse.
• General visiting hours are daily from 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and 4:00 to 8:30 p.m.
• Parents are allowed 24 hour access, but may be asked to leave the room from 7:00 - 8:00 a.m.; 3:00 - 4:00 p.m., 7:00-8:00 p.m., and 11:00 p.m. to midnight, to allow for change of shift activities.
• Ideal visitation time is 15-30 minutes.
• Use the designated entrance or exit to the Unit.
• Visitors may be asked to leave the room upon request of the nurse or physician. Visiting may be restricted if an emergency is in process.
• If the curtain is pulled or the door is closed to the patient's room, check with the nurse before entering.
• Due to the limited space that must be shared in the Family Lounge, we ask that large extended families utilize other areas in the Hospital to congregate, and come to the Unit to visit in limited numbers. Such areas include: The Main Lobby area on First Floor; Four Seasons Dining Room, or family rooms at the Ronald McDonald House (if registered). For quiet reflection time, families may use the Chapel located on the first floor by the North Elevators.
• We discourage parents from bringing food and eating at the bedside.
• A limited number of beepers are available. Ask your nurse for more information.