Five Pro-tips for Dealing with a Hospitalized Loved One

Five Pro-tips for Dealing with a Hospitalized Loved One

  • 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.

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About the Author

Picture of Faigie Horowitz

Faigie Horowitz

Faigie Horowitz, MS serves as director of communication at Caring Professionals. She advocates for the senior population on the state level and writes about senior and caregiver issues. She is a columnist for several periodicals. She has spent decades in nonprofit management and serves as a lay leader and founder of several community organizations.

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