|
Many years ago I went to visit my grandmother in the hospital. She had not yet met Oliver, my little dog, so I put him in a large shoulder bag and took him with me. We did not get caught, although riding back down in an elevator full of doctors after our visit was rather uncomfortable, especially when Oliver let out a small bark. I pretended to be coughing (I was actually laughing) and we made a very quick exit.
Fun? Absolutely. On the list of things to do when visiting someone in the hospital? Not even close!
People are in the hospital for a reason and are often in pain, nervous, uncomfortable and even scared. As a visitor, there are things you can do to help make the experience a little easier for them:
1. Good wishes are welcome; your presence may not be. Always ask before visiting.
2. Flowers are a lovely gesture but make sure the patient does not have any allergies. Latex balloons are typically not allowed due to both patient and staff health concerns (mylar balloons are okay). Other gift suggestions include magazines, a book, crossword or Sudoku puzzles, hand lotion and warm socks.
3. Patients may have difficulty with scents, so leave off the cologne or perfume. If you are a smoker, remember that the smell clings to your clothing; allow time for it to dissipate before visiting.
4. Keep your horror stories and opinions about the patient's diagnosis, treatment and medical plan to yourself. The doctor has been to medical school -- have you?
5. A hospital is no place for a sick visitor. If you have a cold, the flu or any other contagious disease, avoid visiting. To do so may put patients and staff at risk.
6. If you have personal or business calls to make, emails to catch up on, or texts to respond to, do so somewhere other than the patient's hospital room. A visit is not about you and what you need to do.
7. Always respect the patient's privacy. If a doctor, nurse or other hospital personnel enter the room, you should make an exit.
8. Be positive. Ask how the patient is doing. Make light, uplifting conversation and avoid adding to any existing anxiety the patient may be feeling.
9. Be pleasant and friendly to the hospital staff. They are there to take care of the patients, not to entertain or wait on you.
10. Rest and sleep are important for a patient, so be sure not to overstay your welcome. A visit of 10 to 20 minutes may be more than enough.
When a patient has returned home from the hospital, your continued consideration will be appreciated:
1. S/he will likely be tired, in pain, and in need of sleep. Let them be. Cards, and perhaps good wishes sent via email would probably be welcome, just don't expect a response.
2. Contact a family member, a friend or neighbor - is there anything you can do? Helping with the everyday, mundane tasks may have the greatest impact. Can you walk the dog? Grocery shop? Do some laundry? Mow the lawn? Chauffer kids?
Once again, it is the details that will make the difference.
| 
