Forward Waiting
During periods of pressure on the Emergency Department and inpatient areas, it may be necessary to move patients onto a ward to wait for a bed.
Patients will be moved to 'Forward Wait' on an inpatient ward when we identify another patient discharge in that area. Effectively patients may 'wait' on the ward, for up to a maximum of two hours.
The principles of 'Forward Waiting' are to ensure that patients are able to be treated within the Emergency Department, without being on the corridor and that patients requiring admission are transferred to the most appropriate ward to meet their care needs.
During this time, 'Forward Waiting' you will:
- Have an allocated nurse in charge of your care, who will introduce themselves to you.
- Be provided with medications as required.
- Have all your care needs met.
- Be provided with refreshments as required.
We apologise that you may not be transferred directly into a bed on transfer to the ward. However, your safety and comfort is our priority. If you have any concerns, please ask to speak to the ward manager or nurse in charge.
If after speaking to the ward manager/nurse in charge, we have not been able to resolve your concerns, please contact the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) on 01539 715577 or via email pals@mbht.nhs.uk