Fairfax Hospital, officially known as Inova Fairfax Medical Campus, is a leading healthcare institution located in Falls Church, Virginia.
Renowned for its advanced medical services and patient care, the hospital is a hub for numerous specialized treatments, including Northern Virginia’s only Level 1 trauma center, an award-winning children’s hospital, and a dedicated women’s hospital.
Understanding the visiting hours and policies at Fairfax Hospital is crucial for friends and family members who wish to support their loved ones during their hospital stay.
Fairfax Hospital Visiting Hours
Inova Fairfax Medical Campus has set visiting hours from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. These hours are designed to ensure patients receive ample rest while also allowing visitors to provide support.
Generally, patients are allowed to have two visitors at a time. This limit helps maintain a peaceful and quiet environment conducive to patient recovery.
Regular Visiting Hours
During the standard visiting hours of 8 a.m. to 11 p.m., visitors must adhere to the following guidelines:
- Number of Visitors: Typically, no more than two visitors are allowed at a time in a patient’s room.
- Age Restrictions: Visitors should be age twelve (12) or older. However, younger siblings are allowed in certain departments, such as the maternity ward.
Overnight Visitation
For patients in private rooms, one person is allowed to stay overnight. This policy applies to adult patients, whereas pediatric patients can have two parents or guardians stay with them overnight. This flexibility ensures that patients have their loved ones close during critical times.
Special Visiting Hours for Different Departments
Emergency Room (ER)
Visiting policies for the Emergency Room are slightly different:
- Visitors: ER patients can have two visitors during their stay. Additionally, a designated support person (DSP) is allowed if applicable.
- Pediatric ER: Only two parents or guardians are allowed to visit pediatric patients.
Pediatric Units
In pediatric units, parents or guardians have 24/7 access to their children. This constant access is vital for the emotional well-being of young patients and helps in their recovery process.
Behavioral Health Inpatient Units
Visiting hours for behavioral health inpatients are more restricted:
- Hours: 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. daily.
- Visitors: Only one visitor per patient is allowed during these hours.
Women’s Health and Maternity
Visiting hours and policies in the maternity ward are designed to support new mothers and their families:
- Labor and Delivery: Up to three visitors are allowed during labor and delivery. This includes the significant other/support person and two additional visitors.
- Postpartum and High-Risk Perinatal: One companion is allowed 24/7, with an additional two visitors permitted from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
COVID-19 Related Policies
Given the ongoing concerns related to COVID-19, Fairfax Hospital has implemented specific policies to ensure the safety of patients, staff, and visitors.
Masking Requirements
Masks are required in all high-risk areas within the hospital. This includes patient rooms and common areas where patients with compromised immune systems are treated.
Visitors must also undergo symptom screening to ensure they are not exhibiting any COVID-19 symptoms before being allowed to enter.
Symptom Screening
All visitors must pass a symptom screening process. Those who show symptoms of COVID-19, such as fever or cough, will not be allowed to visit. This measure helps protect patients, many of whom may be vulnerable to infections.
Parking Information for Visitors
Fairfax Hospital provides various parking options for visitors to ensure convenience and accessibility.
Parking Garages
There are multiple parking garages available:
- Green Garage: Located off Woodburn Rd., parking here costs $5 per day, but the fee is waived if the visitor exits within 30 minutes. A $25 prepaid 10-visit pass can also be purchased.
- Blue Garage: Situated off Gallows Rd., with similar fees and conditions as the Green Garage.
Drop-off and Pick-up Zones
For visitors with limited mobility, drop-off zones are available at all main entrances. Complimentary valet parking is offered for patients at the Emergency Room entrance, operating 24/7.
Services Available to Visitors
Fairfax Hospital ensures a comfortable and convenient experience for visitors with a range of services.
Food and Drink Options
The hospital has cafeterias and cafes that provide a variety of meal options. These are located conveniently throughout the campus to cater to visitors and patients alike.
Gift Shops and Florists
Gift shops are available within the hospital, offering flowers, cards, and other items that visitors might want to bring to their loved ones.
Chaplain and Spiritual Care
Chaplain services are available for those seeking spiritual support. There are also chapels and prayer rooms within the hospital open to visitors of all faiths.
FAQs About Visiting Fairfax Hospital
Can I visit a patient outside of regular visiting hours? Yes, but this typically requires special permission from hospital staff, particularly for overnight stays.
What are the rules for visiting pediatric patients? Parents and guardians have 24/7 access to their children in pediatric units. Siblings and other visitors are allowed during regular visiting hours.
Are there any age restrictions for visitors? Generally, visitors should be twelve (12) or older, except in specific cases like the maternity ward where younger siblings are permitted.
How do I arrange a virtual visit? Virtual visits can be arranged through the hospital’s patient services, allowing friends and family to stay connected even if they cannot visit in person.
What are the guidelines for end-of-life visitations? For end-of-life situations, two visitors are allowed at the bedside without time restrictions. Clergy visits are also permitted at any time.
Understanding the visiting hours and policies at Fairfax Hospital is essential for ensuring a smooth and supportive experience for both patients and visitors. By adhering to these guidelines, visitors can help create a healing environment that promotes recovery and well-being.
For more information on visiting hours and other services at Fairfax Hospital, you can visit their official website.