Patient Stay

What Patients Need to Know...

LWHA strives to provide patients with safe, quality care using a patient-centered approach throughout the organization. For safety concerns or general questions, please notify a member of your health care team. If you know you are being admitted to the hospital, please remember to bring the following:

Health card or identification showing your name, address and date of birth
Any additional accommodations insurance card
All medications you are currently taking
Pyjamas, bathrobe and slippers
Toothbrush, toothpaste, facial tissues, shampoo and body/hand lotion. These items are not supplied by the hospital.
Hearing aids with extra batteries, or other necessary assistance devices (if applicable)
Reading material

Please do NOT bring any valuables, jewellery or large sums of money. We are not responsible for lost or stolen articles.

DISCHARGE PLANNING STARTS WITH YOU ON ADMISSION: Preparing for your Discharge

PREFERRED ACCOMMODATIONS

You may have Additional Health Insurance to cover the cost of a Private or Semi-Private room. You will be required to present your coverage card to staff for proof of coverage. The hospital will submit claims to your insurance company on your behalf. Please let staff know if you have extra insurance coverage if you are admitted.

Room Rates: Private: $250.00 or Semi-Private: $235.00.

Cafeteria & Vending Machines

Cafeterias are located on ground floor at LMH and the basement at WDH. Vending Machines are available 24 hours/day. Change Machines are located at the Main Registration at LMH and in the Cafeteria at WDH. ATMs are not available on site.

Listowel Hours: Monday – Friday: 11:30am – 1:00pm
Wingham Hours: Monday – Friday: 11:45am – 1:15pm

parking fees

Use the parking lots located across from the Main Entrance at LMH or Emergency Entrance at WDH.
Listowel: Cost of $2 upon Exit
(accepts Debit, VISA, M/C, and all coins)
Wingham: Free of Charge
Change Machines are located at the Main Registration at LMH and in the Cafeteria at WDH. ATM’s are not available on site.

PATIENT ENTERTAINMENT

Telephones: Free service available. Dial 9 prior to number
Internet: Free Wi-Fi is available! The network is LWHA-GUEST with no password.
Televisions: Due to COVID this service is currently free.
For activation and payment instructions, refer to the Television Rental Agreement form in your Admission Package.

personal belongings

Personal Care items such as entertainment devices, clothing, shoes, toiletries, razors, glasses, contact lenses, dentures, hearing aids, mobility aids (cane/walker/wheelchair) are welcomed, however LWHA does not assume responsibility for any items that are damaged or go missing. Do not bring valuables to the hospital, including money.

PRIVACY

LWHA is committed to keeping all personal health information safe and confidential. Do not take pictures or videos without permission. Please adhere to hospital practices and policies. If you have a privacy related concern, call us at Ext. 6225 or email us through our contact form.

MEDICATIONS

If you have questions about your medications while in hospital, please reach out to your healthcare team. Pharmacists are available Monday-Friday, 8am-4pm at Ext. 6478 or 6494.
Please bring all current medications to the hospital, including blister packs, puffers, eye drops, vitamins etc. and a list of your allergies.

FALLS PREVENTION/FALL RISK

All patients are screened for falls risk on admission. If you are screened as a high fall risk, a yellow “Call, Don’t Fall” armband will be applied to alert yourself and staff of this risk. Please use your call bell for assistance!

To help prevent a fall please bring the following to the hospital: rubber-soled slippers/shoes, walking aids (cane/walker)

Infection prevention & Control

Wash your hands after using the washroom, coughing, sneezing, and upon entering or leaving a patient room. Hand sanitizers are available throughout the Hospital. To stop the spread of germs, hand hygiene is important when visiting more than one patient at a time.

When visiting patients in isolation, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is required. Refer to the signs posted on the room door or patient curtain. PPE may include gloves, gown and/or masks. If you have any questions, please contact our Infection Prevention and Control Coordinator at Ext. 5279.

PREVENTING DEEP VEIN THROMBOSIS (DVT)

DVT is a blood clot that forms in a deep vein, often in the calf or thigh. The clot can partially or completely block blood flow and damage vessels. If a blood clot breaks free, it can travel to the lungs and cause pulmonary embolus.
You will work with your healthcare team to prevent a DVT by determining the prevention methods.

Exercising your lower leg muscles several times per day
Use of compression stockings, especially when sitting for long periods of time
Medicine therapies such as blood thinners.

INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOUR

LWHA is committed to providing a safe, healthy and supportive environment for all, supported by a zero tolerance policy for disrespectful behaviour and/or violence. If observed, report to a member of the healthcare team.

PRESSURE ULCER PREVENTION

Pressure ulcers (bedsores) are caused by constant pressure that damages skin and underlying tissue. Every patient is assessed on admission for risk of skin breakdown. Prevention strategies include.

Adequate diet with protein
Frequent mobilization/changes in position
Protection from friction/sheer during movement

Smoke-Free

Smoking and vaping are not allowed on any hospital property including the grounds and parking lots.

INVOLVEMENT

Interested in becoming an active participant in Quality Improvement teams with the hospital? Contact Patient Experience Office.

Patient and family Feedback

LWHA greatly values feedback received from patients, families, and visitors. You can provide feedback through in-person conversations, phone calls, letters and/or email. Feedback is used to guide improvements and opportunities within the organization. Discuss all concerns with your healthcare provider. If unresolved, speak with the Department Manager. You may also email Patient Experience or call Ext. 6206. Share your experience through our Survey! A paper copy is included in your Admission Package. Patient Experience Survey

Patient declaration of values & responsibilities

Please visit our Values and Conduct Page!