This leaflet explains what the discharge lounge is at Royal Free Hospital and what you can expect when you’re waiting to go home.

What is the discharge lounge?

The discharge lounge is where you will be asked to wait once your doctor says that you are ready to be discharged from the ward. You can wait in the lounge while your final discharge arrangements are made, such as prescriptions or hospital transport. You’re also welcome to make use of the lounge if you are waiting for a friend or family member to collect you.

If you are waiting for hospital transport or an ambulance to take you home, the time you have to wait will vary, especially when the hospital is busy.

Waiting in the discharge lounge can be more comfortable than waiting on the ward.

What to expect

  • Comfortable facilities – relax in reclining chairs and enjoy peaceful lighting in a modern environment.
  • Food and drink – hot and cold drinks, snacks and a full meal service catering to different dietary requirements are available free of charge.
  • Entertainment – TVs and newspapers are available to help pass the time and free hospital Wi-Fi is available so you can use your phone or tablet.
  • Accessibility – the lounge is designed for comfort, with wheelchair friendly spaces and accessible toilets.

Who will look after me?

The discharge lounge is staffed by a team of nurses and healthcare assistants as well as an administrator. They are there to support you every step of the way. If you are anxious, or have any questions, please speak to a member of staff – we’re here to help.

The nurses can explain your discharge plan and medication, ensuring you feel confident about what happens next. The nurse in charge wears a red badge so you can identify them easily.

Healthcare assistants support the nurses and can help with refreshments and any other support you may need. Our administrator will prepare any paperwork you need to take home and will arrange hospital transport for patients who need it. They keep everything in the lounge running smoothly.

Who can use the discharge lounge?

All adult patients (over 18s) who are ready to go home will be asked to wait in the lounge. There are some exclusions or situations that apply, that means certain patients are unable to use the lounge, but the staff on the ward will let you know if these apply to you. A member of the discharge lounge team will come to collect you from the ward.

We value your feedback

Before you leave the discharge lounge, we will ask you to complete a survey. Your feedback will help us know what we are doing well and where we can improve. Last year, 96 per cent of patients rated their experience in the lounge as good or very good.

Location and opening hours

The discharge lounge is located on the ground floor of the Royal Free Hospital.

  • Monday to Friday: 8am to 8pm
  • Saturday: 9am to 5pm
  • Sunday: closed

If you are discharged at a time when the lounge is closed, you will be able to wait on the ward.