Visiting a Loved One in the Hospital Can Have a Healing Effect

Visiting a family member in the hospital?

Take a few moments beforehand to consider how to make sure you have a positive impact, says an Olmsted Medical Center nurse.

Brenda Ziegler, director of maternal and neonatal services, said the area of a hospital you visit can make a difference in patient needs, and in the type of gifts you might bring.

• Keep your visit short and don't be offended if the health providers ask you to leave the patient's room or to leave altogether. "Sometimes less is more, because they do need that extra rest," Ziegler said. "Make your visit short, and if you can, stress-free." 
• Avoid arguments, talking about finances and other stress-filled topics. Allow the person time to heal in a stress-free environment. 
• At birthing units, for example, a new mother will often avoid telling family members she needs to rest. If you're a new mom, ask nurses to pay attention to your energy level. The nurses are your best advocates to make sure you get the healing time you need. 
• Please use quiet voices, Ziegler said. Be mindful of other families. 
• If you've got a cold or are sick, stay home until you're symptom free. 
• Check before you take flowers or children to visit. A patient, or staff member, might be allergic to pollen. An individual patient might not have the energy for a roomful of kids yet. So check ahead of time. 
• Don't take along a youngster who has a cough and runny nose, especially when visiting a new mother or a child. 
• Remember, you're visiting to show your support. So enjoy the visit, but pay attention to your loved one's needs. 
• Lastly, don't forget to offer support once the person goes home from the hospital, Ziegler said. "I think it would help with the isolation that new parents and moms feel," she said.

The same is true for people dealing with recent illness. Visitors are appreciated, both at the hospital and at home, Ziegler said.