If your loved one is in hospital, you may feel anxious about visiting. Many people have issues with hospitals, and it can be difficult to know what to do and say.
Here are some tips for giving a #HospitalHelpingHand
Ask for permission
Sure, most patients want to see their loved ones. And they usually like to have visitors. But sometimes they just won’t feel up to it on that day. That’s why it’s a good idea to always ask if they’re still up to having visitors on the day that you’d like to visit.
If they don’t feel well, ask if they’d rather you stop by on another day instead. Just keep in mind that you shouldn’t avoid visiting just because you assume they won’t be up to it- it’s always a good idea to ask.
Keep it short
Even if your loved one is able to have visitors, it’s a good idea to avoid tiring them out. Limit the length of your visit to between half an hour and an hour each time. If you’re not directly related to the patient, consider asking if they want you to leave the room when medical professionals want to discuss their private information or treatment plan.
Stay healthy
If you’re experiencing any symptoms, you may want to avoid visiting. The last thing your loved one needs is to be exposed to anything contagious. Instead, skip your visit until you’re symptom-free, and give them a call or send a card instead.
Ensure you’re sanitising or washing your hands before you visit, and avoid smoking before you enter the hospital- the smell can make them feel nauseous if they’re on certain medications.
Be considerate
Ensure your phone is on vibrate or turned off. Most hospitals have some areas where you can’t use your phone as they interfere with medical devices. Your loved one may also be sharing a room with another patient, so you’ll need to make sure you don’t disturb that patient when they’re trying to rest or sleep. It’s always nice to bring balloons or flowers, or even something sweet (if they’re allowed to eat it).
Make them comfortable
A few small, inexpensive items can help you boost your friend or family member’s morale while they’re in hospital. Hospitals are not nice places to be, so consider bringing some books or magazines, crossword puzzles, slippers, or a comfortable pair of socks. Keep in mind that they may get tired easily, and try to keep their stress level down while you’re there.
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