The problems may be directly related to physical harm, or may even be mental or emotional.
Knowing the dos and don’ts may give you the confidence you need.
Many patients love visitors, but some just don’t feel up to it.
JGI / Tom Grill / Getty Images
Do the patient the courtesy of asking permission.
Do wash or sanitize your hands.Do this before you touch the patient or hand the patient something.
Do wear a mask.
If you do not have a mask, the hospital should be able to provide you with one.
Do check before bringing balloons or flowers.
Most solid color balloons are latex rubber, and some people areallergic to latex.
When in doubt, take mylar balloons or don’t take any at all.
Do consider alternative gifts.
Do turn off or silence your cell phone.
Different hospitals have different rules about where and when cell phones can be used.
Do stay for a short time.
Staying too long may tire them out.
Better to visit more frequently but for no more than a half hour or so each time.
Do leave the room if the doctor or provider arrives to examine or talk to the patient.
you’ve got the option to return once the provider leaves.
Do follow all hospital policies and staff instructions.
Check the hospital’s visiting hours and other policies prior to visiting.
Neither the patient nor other hospital workers can afford to catch whatever you have.
If you have symptoms like a cough, runny nose, rash or even diarrhea, don’t visit.
Make a phone call or send a card instead.
Don’t take young children to visit unless it’s absolutely necessary.
Check with the hospital before you take a child with you.
Many hospitals have restrictions on when children may visit.
Don’t take food to your patient unless you know they can tolerate it.
Many patients are put on special diets while in the hospital.
This is especially true for those with certain diseases or even those who have recently hadanesthesiafor surgery.
Your goodies could cause big problems.
Don’t visit if your presence will cause stress or anxiety.
Don’t expect the patient to entertain you.
They are there to heal, not to talk or keep you occupied.
It may be better for them to sleep or just rest rather than carry on a conversation.
Don’t stay home because you assume your friend or loved one prefers you not visit.
Don’t smoke before visiting or during a visit, even if you excuse yourself to go outdoors.
Johns Hopkins Medicine.Patient safety and quality: hand hygiene.
