A Meaningful Guide to Visiting Patients
Visiting someone in the hospital is one of the best ways to support them and show them you care, and with a bit of preparation, you can make your visit even more meaningful. Here is a handy guide to help you make the most of your visit:
Plan & Prepare
Check Visiting Hours and Policies: Always call ahead to confirm visiting hours and any specific rules or restrictions the hospital may have. This ensures you visit at a convenient time and comply with any health guidelines.
Assess the Patient's Condition: Contact family or hospital staff to ensure the patient is up for visitors. This helps avoid visiting when they might be too tired or undergoing treatment. For example, right after surgery or admittance isn't usually the best time to visit.
Be Positive & Present
Bring Positive Energy: Enter the room with a cheerful and uplifting attitude. Share happy stories, and bring good energy to lift the patient's spirits.
Listen and Be Present: Sometimes, the best support is simply being there and listening. Allow them to share their thoughts and feelings at their own pace. Show empathy and understanding without pressing for details they may not want to discuss. Lastly, patients are often fatigued or not in their typical state of mind, so don't expect a typical back-and-forth conversation. Again, your presence is often enough.
Keep Visits Short, Small & Timely
Short and Sweet: Keep your visits brief to avoid tiring the patient. Even a short visit can be meaningful.
Small groups: It's best to avoid large groups of visitors so as not to overwhelm the patient. Plus, there's not a lot of space or seats in a hospital room, and large groups often make for longer visits.
Thoughtful Gestures
Cards: Don't underestimate the power of your words. A heartfelt message of love and support will lift their spirits and can have a real impact throughout their hospital stay and recovery.
Gifts: If you'd like to bring a gift, consider one that can provide comfort, can help entertain them, or something personal such as a memento.
Check before you bring: Be sure to check with the hospital, as some items, such as flowers and food, might be restricted depending on the patient's condition, the area of the hospital they're in, or other hospital rules.Respect the Hospital Environment
Keep Noise Down: Speak softly and keep your phone on silent. This creates a peaceful atmosphere and ensures other patients can rest without disruptions.