Neonatal Open Access

Please read this information leaflet carefully in order to use the service appropriately and more importantly know when more immediate action is needed.

What is Open Access?

Open Access means that babies and children have the right to access (get) medical advice and treatment without going to their GP.

Why is my baby getting Open Access?

Your baby has been given Open Access as they have an ongoing medical need when they are discharged from hospital.  It is provided for a limited period of time, this will be discussed with you before your baby has been discharged.

If I am concerned about my baby what should I do?

If you are concerned or you notice any of the following, such as, your baby:

• has irregular breathing, pauses in breathing, or is breathing faster than usual
• is lethargic on handling or is floppy
• is excessively (very) sleepy
• has blue, mottled or very pale skin colour
• is not feeding
• is having a seizure (fit)
• is crying inconsolably
• needs more oxygen than usual

If you have a copy of your baby’s discharge letter please bring this to the hospital with you along with any medicines they are currently taking. 

If your baby is generally unwell but alert and of normal colour, and is breathing regularly, you can discuss their condition by dialling 111 for advice.

If you are concerned about your baby, or your baby requires their feeding tube replacing you should contact either the Paediatric Day Unit or Ward 15and speak to a member of staff.  See contact numbers below. 

This is so your baby’s needs can be assessed by a member of staff over the telephone and an appropriate advice can be given to you and, if required arrangements made for your baby’s arrival on to the ward.

You must not turn up before contacting the Day Unit or Ward.

Contact numbers

University Hospital of North Tees

Children’s and Young Person’s Emergency Department

24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Telephone: 01642 624533

Ward 15

Telephone: 01642 382715

Opening hours: 8:00pm to 10:00am (7 days a week)

Comments, concerns, compliments or complaints

Patient Experience Team (PET)

We are continually trying to improve the services we provide. We want to know what we’re doing well or if there’s anything which we can improve, that’s why the Patient Experience Team (PET) is here to help. Our Patient Experience Team is here to try to resolve your concerns as quickly as possible. The office is based on the ground floor at the University Hospital of North Tees if you wish to discuss concerns in person. If you would like to contact or request a copy of our PET leaflet, please contact:

Telephone: 01642 624719

Freephone: 0800 092 0084

Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 4:00pm

Email: [email protected]

Out of hours

Out of hours if you wish to speak to a senior member of Trust staff, please contact the hospital switchboard who will bleep the appropriate person.

Telephone: 01642 617617

Data protection and use of patient information

The Trust has developed Data Protection policies in accordance with Data Protection Legislation (UK General Data Protection Regulations and Data Protection Act 2018) and the Freedom of Information Act 2000. All of our staff respect these policies and confidentiality is adhered to at all times. If you require further information on how we process your information please see our Privacy Notices.

Telephone: 01642 383551

Email: [email protected]

Leaflet feedback

This leaflet has been produced in partnership with patients and carers. All patient leaflets are regularly reviewed, and any suggestions you have as to how it may be improved are extremely valuable. Please write to the Clinical Governance team, North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, University Hospital of North Tees, TS19 8PE or:

Email: [email protected]