Sentara supports a philosophy of healing that involves patient-centered care. We invite patients to have guests 24 hours a day 7 days a week with the exception of a few restricted access units.
For the health and safety of children under 12 years of age, a supervising adult, other than the patient, must accompany them at all times.
Sentara Health does not discriminate against visitors based on race, culture, color, religion, marital status, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin or any disability or handicap. We understand that the patient may need to surround themselves with family and/or friends to heal physically, emotionally and spiritually. We support our patient's right to have any visitors of their choosing, including domestic partners (which includes same-sex domestic partners).
Visitor Guidelines
- All visitors are required to stop at reception, share a photo ID along with their destination, and receive a photo visitor badge.
- Photo visitor badge must be placed prominently on upper part of torso, visible for staff to see at all times.
- Visitors are encouraged to wear a mask and observe social distancing guidelines while inside a Sentara facility.
- Visitors will only be allowed if they do not have symptoms of respiratory infection (fever, cough, shortness of breath).
- If a patient is in isolation for any reason, visitation will be limited.
Critical Care Unit
- Visitors 12 and older. For special circumstances, the charge nurse, patient nurse or physician may lift or limit the age restriction.
- Please limit visitors to two at a time.
Emergency Department
Visitation in the Emergency Department is subject to change based on the number of patients and visitors.
Women's Health Center - Maternity, Postpartum & Neonatal Intensive Care Units
- Labor & Delivery may have three visitors
- Postpartum may have unlimited visitors
Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)
- Up to 3 visitors at the bedside
- Healthy siblings are welcome
All Other Nursing Units
Under normal circumstances, a patient may have open visitation at all times. For special circumstances, the charge nurse, patient nurse or physician (along with the patient), may lift or limit restriction.