Information for families and friends

The Essex Cardiothoracic Centre (CTC) was built with accessibility in mind. We have wheelchair access with large lifts and designated toilets on each level.

We also have accessible signage for people with sight difficulties and a loop system in reception areas for people with hearing difficulties.

Designated parking spaces are available for blue badge holders.

Family and friends are very welcome and are encouraged, where possible, to take an active part in routine care. [WHAT DOES THIS MEAN?]

We only allow two visitors per patient at any time. When you arrive, ring the doorbell and wait to be let in. There are several reasons for this:

• Your relative may be undergoing a procedure or nursing care and want privacy.
• We may be in a ward round discussing confidential information.
• There may be a patient in the next bed who needs privacy.

We recognise that waiting can be frustrating, but our priority is patient care. The team will try to give relatives as much information as they can and allow visiting as soon as possible. 

Patients can feel very tired following their operation/procedure or treatment and might not feel like having many visitors, so please bear this in mind when visiting. 

We take infection prevention and control very seriously and constantly work to control the risk of infection to patients, visitors, and staff. 

There are sinks and alcohol hand gel dispensers close to every bed. Please wash your hands or use the gel each time you leave or return your bed. 

Visitors are not allowed to sit on beds.

Please do not bring in real flowers as they can be a source of infection.

Phones cannot be used in wards or clinical areas because they can interfere with sensitive medical equipment. Please turn off your mobile phone before entering any clinical area.

Do not take photographs or videos without permission of everyone involved. [NOTE: THERE IS NO POLICY TO ENFORCE THIS].

Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust operates a no smoking policy across all its hospital sites. Smoking is not permitted in our buildings or in any of our grounds. This also applies to the use of e-cigarettes (e-cigs or vapes).  

There is a range of medical equipment you might see during your stay or visit at The Essex Cardiothoracic Centre (CTC). 

To find out more visit Equipment you might see.