Family and Friends
Visitors play an important role in the healing process for our patients. UTMB Health allows the patient to choose family members, friends or other individuals to be present for support during the course of his or her hospital stay. The patient also
has the right to withdraw or deny such consent at any time. Visitors are welcome to visit patients; however, exceptions may be made at the discretion of the unit charge nurse, who has the authority to determine the number of visitors and length
of visitation, based on patient needs and other unit activities. No exceptions will be based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation or disability. Because visiting hours or the number of visitors may
be restricted depending on the patient’s condition or type of patient care unit, visitors are encouraged to inquire about area-specific visitation standards. For visitors entering the hospital between 9:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m., staff at the
reception desk will issue a visitor pass. Women’s, Infant’s & Children’s units have specific policies to protect newborn babies and ensure a family-centered birthing experience. Ask your nurse about these policies.
Visitor Conduct
Visitors are expected to conduct themselves in an appropriate manner considered consistent with community standards within a hospital environment. Visitors should be considerate of all patients by observing visiting hours, refraining from loud conversations
or any other behavior that may disturb a patient, and abiding by other restrictions that are either described in this document or posted throughout the hospital.
Waiting Areas
There are specially designated lounge areas for visitors on most patient floors and on the main floor in the lobby. Specific waiting areas have been designated for families of patients in the critical care units, the Emergency Department and Surgery.