I usually write about Business Etiquette here, but Social Etiquette is just as important! I was in the hospital today with my younger Sister and I immediately knew that a blog post about Hospital Etiquette was neccesary!
I hope that you enjoy it...
from Classy, BlackGirl.
Visiting friends and especially family in the hospital can be tough. It doesnt always smell great, its boring, there is often times stress involved with hoping that your loved one is going to remain healthy. However, there are some do’s and donts when it comes to visiting and being with those in the hospital
…and yes there is a HOSPITAL ETIQUETTE that should be followed.
1. Do Not Speak Loudly, especially in the waiting room. You may very well be disturbing other people who are infirmed or with their own family and friends.
2. Always lock the door when using the restroom. Nobody wants to walk in on you in the restroom-doing your business.
SuperTip: Also remember in case there is an issue with the lock to ALWAYS knock on the door before entering the restroom.
3. Be very kind to the Hospital Staff. While you want to make sure that your loved one is being cared for you also want to make sure that you are giving the hospital staff the respect that they deserve, they are serving your loved one-and OTHER sick people.
4. Be Positive. Your loved one is already ill, there is no reason for you to discuss your own personal thoughts or experiences unless they are positive.
5. Dont use your cell phone in the hospital. Besides the fact that the probablility of it working are very low, its also very rude. You are in the hospital to visit somebody sick, why would you be trying to connect with somebody else? The easy way around this is to put your phone on silent just before getting out of the car. Be Present.
6. Please be SCENTSITIVE….that means please dont be full of cologne, perfume or cigarette smoke when visiting. Flowers are included in this rule. If your loved one has a roomate they may have an allergy even if the person that you are coming to visit does not. An alternative to flowers is recommend.
Hospital Etiquette Tip: There is usually very little space in most hospital rooms, err on the side of clean if at all possible. Your cleanliness and fresh smell is next to Godlienss(and appreciated by all) in the hospital.
7. If you are ill or feel like you could be ill-STAY HOME. The hospital is the WORST place for a sick person. There are germs everywhere! Protect yourself and your loved one.
8. When the doctor arrives, quickly step out of the room, unless you are the primary caregiver for the patient. You should not have to be asked to excuse yourself.
9. I Love the Kids, but leave them at home. You cannot focus on your time with the patient if you are also watching your child. If they are old enough, they may also ask inappropriate questions and you want to be thoughful of how seeing somebody in the hospital might negatively affect children.
10. Ask if you can visit. Please make sure that your loved one actually desires to have visitors. Sometimes people want lots of visitors, other times, people simply want to have time alone to rest and heal. If you cannot talk to them make sure that you have clearance BEFORE just showing up!
According to SHARP.com,
Super Balloon Tip: Remember that While most hospitals permit Mylar (foil) balloons, many do not allow latex balloons due to latex allergies and sensitivities among patients, staff and visitors.
Thank You for Reading!...If You Like My Hospital Etiquette Tips Please Invite Me to Speak or to Come and Teach a Workshop at Your Place of Business or Organization!
Sharelle D. Lowery
Etiquette & Lifestyle | Speaker.Author.Coach.
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