When visiting someone in hospital - Keep in Mind

Visiting hours
Every hospital whether big or small has fixed visiting hours. Respect them. Just because you have arrived 10 minutes before the visiting hours end doesn’t mean you can stay for longer because you entered in time. Do not argue with the hospital staff over this issue as they are following the rules for maintaining discipline in the hospital for the convenience of the patients. Some hospitals have a no pets rule while some do not allow kids as visitors. Check the rules before you visit someone to avoid any disappointment or inconvenience.

Number of visitors
Hospitals are not banquet halls where you can gang up and plan a family or friends get-together. Big hospitals like Fortis have policies regarding the number of patients allowed at one time and may also need the patient’s family to get a visitor’s pass. As a responsible individual, it is your duty to not engage in sneaking extra people in or breaking the rules. Also, while your relative or friend might feel cheerful after meeting you, the other patients in the ward may be resting and need some quiet. The hospital is for the public so respect other patients and the staff.

Outside food
Most big hospitals have dietitians and experts who plan and provide meals for the patient. Though there is no match for home cooked food, sometimes it may not be right for the patient. Do not sneak in food or argue with the staff to feed the patient home cooked food. All hospital rules are for the betterment and speedy recovery of the patient. If there is a valid reason for giving home cooked food, consult the doctor and take permission than breaking rules. Small hospitals may not have similar rules, but you still must follow the instructions given by the doctor regarding the diet.

Hygiene
Hospitals are synonymous with hygiene and while all hospitals try to maintain the place clean, the family and visitors of patients must do their bit too. When visiting a newborn, always touch the baby with clean hands. This applies for all patients and most hospitals have hand sanitisers. Use them before touching the patient. Avoid sitting on the patient’s bed and do not touch any medical equipment placed around the patient as it may lead to an infection. If you are unwell or suffering from an infection, avoid the visit as it may pose a problem for the patient. You can call the patient to convey your concern.

Gifts
Who doesn’t love to see fresh flowers when hospitalised? Some hospitals have a policy of not allowing flowers or fruits from outside as a part of preventing infections. You can gift books or cards instead to bring a smile on the patient’s face. Books or board games will keep the patient entertained even when you are not around and hence are better gifts with no threat of infections.

Some other don’ts:
Don’t use the patient’s toilet. There are public toilets for visitors.
Do not sit on the bed or touch the beds or any other medical equipment.
Keep your visit brief so the patient can take a break and rest between several visits.
Keep your cell phones on vibrate or silent mode to avoid disturbing anyone. more