• There are many plastic surfaces in a hospital bed. Even though they may be covered with cloth, the proximity to rubberized material may cause irritation or discomfort to your patient. Try bringing a softer pillow case or favorite feather pillow from home. The right texture of the bed linens will ease things for your patient.

• Another way to increase sensual comfort is by using smell. Bring a reed diffuser to the hospital room to mask unpleasant odors and lend a sense of calm. Lavender oils are effective for relaxation.

• Save yourself time and stress. You may want to share access to the patient portal with the nearest and dearest in the family so you don’t have to keep updating them on the family chat. Alternately, you can designate one person as the reporter; give her access and  have her update the immediate family members on the chat. This is not the same person as the primary caregiver who is present in the hospital for long periods of time.

• Always introduce yourself to the nurses and let them know when you step away for a period of time. Your patient may call for you and you want the nurse to reassure the patient that you will be back shortly.

• Use the periods of time when a procedure is being perfomed to take a break. Leave the room, get some fresh air and food, and refresh yourself. Discover new nooks in different units of the hospital that may have balconies, river views, or better chairs. Just a little change can be restorative.

More articles from Caring Professionals Home Care Agency:

• Handling the Difficult Patient During a Medical Crisis
• Turn off the TV for my Senior??? Yes
• Hospital to Home Discharge Process: Essential Steps and Requirements
• I’m confused! Home health care, home care, personal care. What’s the difference?
• Caring for a Parent Without the Family Feud
• An Aging Expert’s Top Nine Tips for Aging Well