Security & Safety

Staff ID

There will be many people involved in your care. Everyone who works for VCH wears a name tag and will be able to answer your questions about what they do.Leaving your unit

If you need to leave your unit or floor for any reason, please let your nurse know where you are going, and approximately how long you will be gone.Medication safety

Medications you receive in hospital may look different from what you take at home. If you have any questions about your medications, ask your health care provider or ask to speak with a pharmacist. Bring a complete list of your current medications, including non-prescription drugs and herbal products, when you check into the hospital.Fire drills

VCH sites regularly hold fire drills. If a fire alarm goes off during your stay, remain in your room. Staff are trained to provide instructions to patients in the event of a fire drill or emergency.Smoking and fragrances

All VCH sites are smoke-free inside and outside. Patients who smoke are welcome to ask for information about smoking cessation programs and products available to them while in hospital.

Do not wear perfume, cologne or aftershave while you are a patient in a VCH facility. If you can, remind visitors before they come to see you to refrain from wearing these products or bringing flowers with strong scents. Some people are highly allergic to fragrance ingredients, and can suffer severe reactions.

Patient-related questions

Consider designating a family member or close friend as your contact while you are in the hospital. Although nurses can tell callers your general condition, they are not able to give details about your health over the phone, in order to protect your privacy. Let your designated contact know the hospital’s main switchboard telephone number.

For contact information, see "Information and Main Switchboard" in the directory of the hospital-specific patient and family handbook.

Depending on your unit or room, you may be able to take telephone calls.