Caring For Your Loved One in the Hospital
It is very important for family and friends to be present and actively
engaged with patients during their hospital stay. Patients tend to be
less confused and disoriented, and they respond better to treatment when
they recognize and can interact with familiar faces.
Mary Washington Healthcare encourages family members and friends to stay
with patients as much as possible to make their hospital visit more tolerable.
Children and elderly patients especially need more attention from loved
ones during this time, as well as patients who:
- Typically require a companion at home
- Become disoriented in new or unfamiliar environments
- Are uncomfortable around new or strange people
- Have been known to wander
- Have a negative attitude toward being hospitalized
Things you can do to make the hospital stay better
- If you know your loved one is going to be admitted, talk to your doctor
about how the stay is likely to affect his or her thinking and behavior.
- Have a family meeting to discuss responsibilities, such as who will stay
at the hospital during surgery and how to alternate visiting hours to
share care-giving.
- Talk to your loved one about the upcoming hospital stay and involve him
or her in discussions and decision-making as much as possible.
- Make your loved one feel comfortable away from home by bringing a photograph,
favorite blanket, or security item.
- Remain with your loved one as much as possible. Try to be in the room when
he or she wakes in the morning, when medications are given, or when the
doctor stops by.
- Communicate regularly with your loved one when you cannot be there. Phone
often or leave notes.
MWHC is committed to providing the best clinical and medical care to your
family member or loved one.
We understand that there may be times when family or friends cannot be
at the hospital. At those times, a sitter can provide companionship. Our
nursing staff is happy to work with you in seeking out assistance for
your loved one, including hiring a hospital companion. Ask us for a list
of local personal care agencies that can provide a sitter for your loved one.