House rules for patients and visitors

We treat each other with respect, and always act in a friendly and polite manner. We value everyone’s beliefs, customs, values, norms, appearance, and opinions. We honour agreements, avoid judgement or discrimination, and respect each other's rest, including at night. Feel free to use your phone, but please be considerate of those around you.

We respect each other’s belongings and avoid causing unnecessary dirt or damage. We do not take items that belong to others. Everyone is responsible for their own personal belongings, and the UZA is not liable for theft or loss. If a patient is unable to manage their belongings, they should entrust them to a family member or companion during outpatient visits. For hospital admissions, any ‘unattended’ belongings will first be offered to family or a representative. If this is not possible, the items will be securely stored in the ward.

Practical tips:
•    Do not leave money or wallets lying around.
•    Bring as little cash as possible and leave valuables at home.
•    Report suspicious circumstances.
•    Leave your car at home during your hospital stay.

Did you lose something during your visit to the UZA? Fill out this form.

We will continue to follow up on your request for up to three months. If your item is found, we will contact you, and you can collect it at the reception desk (open weekdays from 6:30 to 20:00, and weekends and public holidays from 8:30 to 20:00).

Your privacy is our priority. We follow the principles outlined in our privacy policy to ensure your information is protected.

Aggressive behaviour, whether verbal or non-verbal, is not tolerated. This includes threats, swearing, hitting, or kicking. Any such actions will be reported to the police.

We are a smoke-free hospital. Smoking is only permitted in designated smoking areas outside the hospital:

• Opposite the UZA entrance
• Outside the Kinsbergen Auditorium (route 12)

Please use the ashtrays and do not litter.
 

Dangerous objects and prohibited weapons are not allowed in the hospital. If brought, these items may be confiscated, and the police may be involved.

To reduce fire risks in the hospital, please follow these guidelines:

• Do not use personal electrical appliances (such as fans, coffee makers, kettles, and other household devices).
• Only small personal hygiene devices, such as electric toothbrushes, razors, or hairdryers, are allowed. They must be in good condition and have a CE marking.
• Charge your devices only during the day using their original chargers. Place them safely and visibly on a bedside table or desk, not on or in the bed.
• The use of real candles is strictly prohibited.
   

Of yourself:

You may take photos, videos, and audio recordings of yourself, provided no other individuals are recognisable. If you wish to include someone else, you must obtain their explicit permission first.

Of others:

Only take photos and videos of others with their permission, even if you want to capture a medical procedure.
•    Always ask for permission in advance. Ideally, this should be in writing unless circumstances make it impractical.
•    Permission is given for personal use only and does not include sharing on social media or distributing the images.
•    Explain how you plan to use the photo, video, or audio recording. You are not allowed to use it for any other purpose than what was agreed.
•    If someone refuses or cannot give permission, you must not take photos, videos, or audio recordings of that person.

Important: Never take photos or videos of staff badges, computer screens, or displays with patient or staff images.

Of patients and visitors by UZA

To protect patient privacy, UZA opts to never capture patients recognisably in images, even from the side.

Every patient looks forward to their visit. To ensure smooth visits, certain guidelines must be respected.

• Do not visit the hospital if you are ill.
• Follow hand hygiene guidelines. Wash and disinfect your hands; hand sanitiser is available.
• Help keep the hospital clean by respecting the work of our cleaning staff.
• Due to limited space around the bed, please bring only small bouquets of flowers, plants are not permitted. Flowers and plants are not allowed in intensive care units.

For safety and hygiene reasons, animals are not allowed in the hospital. However, exceptions are made for assistance and guide dogs under certain conditions.
 

For your safety and ours, security cameras are in place in certain areas of the UZA. These cameras do not always record, but they can display live footage.

If house rules or staff instructions are not followed, appropriate action will be taken. This may result in a warning or denial of access to the hospital. Any possession of weapons, threats, aggression (verbal or physical), drug use, or theft will be reported to the police.

These rules are in line with our staff code of conduct. You can expect the same respect and behaviour from us as we expect from you.

Together, we create a calm, safe, and welcoming environment where everyone feels comfortable.