Visitation is an important part of caring about someone. Sometimes, visitation means going to a hospital when the person is sick. Most of us find hospital visitation uncomfortable. Here are some tips to help you.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW FIRST …
§ A sickness can be the tip of the iceberg when it comes to a person’s problems in life. Be prepared for the person to either avoid discussions because of her fear of revealing the rest of the iceberg, or of her opening up and pouring out on you problems you might be unaware of.
§ Do not judge a person because of his/her sickness.
§ Do not try to take control of the person’s life.
§ Pray before and after you visit for a heart of compassion.
§ Show respect for the nursing staff and doctors irrespective of what past experiences you might have had in life.
WHAT ARE YOUR OPTIONS FOR ACTION?
Wash your hands before entering the room and after leaving. When visiting a person in the hospital here are some things to keep in mind:
§ The person might still have very practical needs such as child care, housekeeping, financial concerns, and needs to communicate with people.
§ Listen more than you talk.
§ Be understanding. Don’t jump in with advice.
§ Learn about the condition of the illness before you visit.
§ If you arrive and the door is closed, check at the nurse’s station if it is okay to go in.
§ If the person is sleeping, ask the nurse whether she should be woken up or just leave a note and visit again another time.
§ If the room is crowded with visitors then come back another time.
§ When you visit, ask "May I stay for a short time?" Sit in a chair, but be sure to position yourself where the patient can easily see you.
§ Start with a questions such as “How are you doing today?” rather than “Are you still feeling sick today?”
§ Seek her spiritual concerns by asking a question such as “It’s hard being sick and out of control, isn’t it?”
§ Make the visit about 15 minutes in length. Offer a brief prayer before you leave.
§ Note any sign indicating masks or gloves needed during visit.
§ Help in practical things such as refilling the water pitcher, answering the telephone, asking a nurse to stop by. Do not touch or adjust any equipment.
§ Do not second guess a doctor, tell the patient that God will bring total healing, play down the care she is receiving, talk about gossip or bad news, or delve into her personal life.
HOW CAN YOU LEARN MORE?
§ Talk to someone who has been in the hospital and ask what helped him and what did not help.
§ Go on the web and learn about the sickness or medical condition that required hospitalization.
§ Ask family or friends who have been visiting if there is something you can do to help.
