Cellular Phones and Personal Computers
Cellular phones may be used by patients and visitors while in the hospital. However, the use of cellular phones must comply with maintaining patient confidentiality and a quiet and restful environment. Cell phone use may be restricted if noise, photo taking, or other disruptive use impacts patient care or privacy and becomes a problem. Personal computers may be used, however, wireless access is not available at this time.
Flowers and Balloons
Flowers are delivered to patient rooms as soon as they arrive. Flowers are not allowed in the Intensive Care units. Please note that St. Joseph's Medical Center is a latex-free environment, so latex rubber balloons are not permitted. Mylar balloons, however, are welcome.
Leaving the Unit
In order to keep our patients safe and provide continuous medical care, patients are required to stay within the clinical patient care area to which they are assigned. Patients given approval to walk beyond their room, will be required to remain on their assigned unit.
Meals
We make every effort to provide patient meals that are appealing as well as nutritious. Your meals will be prepared according to your physician's orders, including special diets.
You will be provided a daily menu to select your meals for the next day. The schedule is:
Breakfast 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m.
Lunch 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Dinner 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
If you have questions about meal times or selections, please consult with your nurse. If you are on a restricted diet, we may provide you with a special menu approved by your physician. Registered Dieticians are also available to discuss your diet.
Nurse Call Button
The call button at your bedside is connected to the nursing station and should be used to call a nurse to your room when you need help. There is also an emergency call button in the shower stall and bathroom, should you need assistance.
Patient Rooms
When you are admitted to the hospital, you'll be assigned a room in an area of the hospital that specializes in the type of care you will need. If your clinical needs change during the course of your stay, it may be necessary to change your room accordingly. Most rooms in the hospital are semi-private. Private rooms are available for patients needing isolation due to their illness or those in critical care areas.
All inpatient rooms are equipped with adjustable beds, bathroom emergency bells, call buttons, direct dial telephone, and televisions that will enhance both your care and comfort. Please discuss with your care team whether you should get out of bed without assistance.
Patient Satisfaction
The staff at St. Joseph's Medical Center is dedicated to providing you with quality healthcare and a positive patient experience. If you experience exceptional service, or have a problem or concern, we want to know about it. If you have a compliment or a complaint, please tell your physician, nurse or other healthcare professional. They will assist you in any way possible. If you feel that your issue was not resolved, we suggest that you contact the nursing supervisor on duty, or Administration. Just dial the hospital operator by pressing '0' and they will connect you.
Smoking
St. Joseph's Medical Center is a tobacco-free campus. This means that smoking and tobacco use are not permitted anywhere on our property. Please help us ensure the good health of our patients and staff by complying with this policy.
Patients who smoke or use tobacco will be offered information on smoking cessation and nicotine replacement therapy. If you are having difficulty abstaining from smoking or tobacco use during your stay and are interested in nicotine replacement therapy, please let your nurse know. Your physician will be contacted regarding nicotine replacement assessment.
Spiritual Care
Professionally certified chaplains work closely with your healthcare team and are available every day to minister to the spiritual and emotional needs of our patients and their families. If you would like to speak to a chaplain, please inform your nurse or call (209) 467-6547. If you prefer, the chaplain can also assist you in contacting your pastor or spiritual advisor.
Our chapel is located off the main lobby on the first floor next to the Gift Shop. It provides a quiet and peaceful place for meditation and prayer. The chapel is open to patients and visitors from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Telephone
All inpatient rooms are equipped with telephones. Your family and friends may call you by dialing (209) 943-2000 and asking the hospital operator to ring your room.
Television
Color televisions are available in each room. Television service is free of charge in all patient rooms.
