Physical and mental health
Going to hospital
Who can help you if you need to stay in the hospital, your hospital passport, and moving from children's services to adult services.
Staying in hospital
If you are under 16 and need to stay in hospital, you will most likely stay on a children’s ward. Once you are 16 you will usually need to stay on an adult ward.
If you are under Paediatrics open door policy at Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust your access may be extended past 16 years of age in certain circumstances. This is on an individual basis and you will be made aware if this applies to you.
Specialist learning disability and autism liaison nurses
The learning disability liaison team at Stoke Mandeville Hospital help adult patients with learning disabilities and autism, and their carers, to access high-quality care and have a positive experience in the hospital. They will help you to feel supported and in control over choices relating to your care.
The learning disability nurses provide support with emergency admissions, outpatient appointments and inpatient stays. They also help when you leave the hospital, and support families and carers throughout the patient journey.
They do this by:
- making patient letters and leaflets easy to read and understand
- improving the use of patient health passports; a document which helps you to communicate your likes and dislikes
- involving carers and families in the care planning process
- training and supporting our hospital staff to help understand your needs
Your hospital passport
A hospital passport provides important information about your learning disability and/or autism. This can include any medical conditions, medication, personal details, communication information and care and support requirements.