Logan Reid
Sending flowers to a loved one in the hospital is a common way to express your love and support. However, in recent years, many hospitals, particularly ICUs and maternity wards, have restricted or banned flowers for various reasons. These include the potential for vase water to harbor bacteria, pollen irritating allergies, and flowers impeding urgent treatment. Each hospital and ward will have its own rules, so it is important to check with the hospital before sending flowers. If flowers are not allowed, there are alternative gifts you can send, such as fruit or chocolates.
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What You'll Learn
Hospitals' rules on flowers
Flowers are a common gift to bring to a loved one in the hospital as a way of expressing love and support. However, in recent years, many hospitals, particularly ICUs and maternity wards, have sought to ban flowers for a variety of reasons.
Each hospital and ward will have its own rules regarding flowers, and it is best to ask about and respect these rules. For example, Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) welcomes get-well gifts but does not allow flowers or plants in intensive care, oncology, or for immunocompromised patients. This is because flowers and plants can harbour mould and water-borne organisms, which could cause additional infection and illness.
Other reasons why hospitals may not allow flowers include the potential for vase water to harbour bacteria, pollen from flowers irritating allergies, water in vases posing a safety risk to electrical equipment, flowers impeding urgent treatment, and the time cost to healthcare professionals of having to regularly change flower water.
Some cancer patients have also stated that having lots of flowers in their rooms reminds them of funerals. Silk or plastic floral arrangements are usually allowed, but it is important to check that they do not contain decorative moss.
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Flowers' health impact
Flowers are believed to have a positive impact on people's emotional health and well-being. According to a study by behavioral researchers at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, exposure to flowers triggers happy emotions, increases life satisfaction, and positively influences social behavior. The study measured participants' behavioral and emotional responses to receiving flowers, noting various types of smiles and verbal reactions.
In addition to their emotional benefits, some flowers are edible and offer potential health advantages. For example, hibiscus flowers are known to make a refreshing herbal tea and may help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Dandelions, while commonly considered weeds, provide various plant compounds with potent antioxidant properties. Nasturtium flowers have a savory, peppery flavor and contain minerals and compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Borage, or starflower, is used in herbal medicine to treat minor ailments such as sore throats or coughs, although more research is needed to confirm its efficacy.
However, it is important to note that not all flowers are safe to consume, and some hospitals have implemented restrictions on flowers for health and safety reasons. Certain wards, such as intensive care, oncology, and immunocompromised patient areas, may prohibit flowers due to the risk of harboring mold, water-borne organisms, and allergens, which could cause infections or illness. Additionally, vase water can harbor bacteria, and flowers may impede urgent medical treatment by blocking access to the patient. Therefore, it is advisable to check with the hospital and adhere to their specific rules regarding bringing flowers to patients.
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Flowers' psychological impact
Flowers have been used to express emotions and convey sentiments for centuries due to their beauty, fragrance, and timeless appeal. They are often seen as a sophisticated means of expressing a range of emotions, from love and appreciation to sympathy and apologies. The practice of exchanging flowers dates back to prehistoric times, and it has been a tradition in ancient civilizations like Greece, Egypt, Rome, and China.
Scientific studies and research have demonstrated that flowers can evoke deep emotional responses and trigger overwhelmingly positive emotional reactions. The mere presence of flowers can increase feelings of happiness, gratitude, and overall well-being. This is supported by the concept of the "mere exposure effect," which suggests that repeated exposure to pleasant stimuli, such as flowers, can heighten positive feelings. The visual aesthetics, colour psychology, and our innate biophilia, or affinity for nature, also play a role in these emotional responses.
The world of aromatherapy has recognized the therapeutic potential of floral fragrances. Specific floral scents, like lavender or jasmine, can induce relaxation, reduce stress, enhance cognitive function, and alleviate anxiety and depression. The act of gifting flowers releases oxytocin, often referred to as the 'bonding hormone,' fostering a sense of connection and belonging.
However, it is important to note that while flowers can have a positive psychological impact, there are situations where they may not be appropriate. In recent years, many hospitals, particularly ICU and maternity wards, have sought to ban flowers due to concerns about bacteria, allergies, safety risks to electrical equipment, and the potential to impede urgent treatment. Additionally, some cancer patients have expressed that having lots of flowers in their rooms can be a reminder of funerals. Therefore, it is always advisable to check the rules and guidelines of the specific hospital and ward before bringing or sending flowers to a patient.
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Choosing the right flowers
When choosing the right flowers to bring to a hospital, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, it is important to check the hospital's rules and restrictions on flowers. Some hospitals may have specific policies in place, especially in intensive care units, due to concerns related to allergies, infection control, or limited space. It is recommended to contact the hospital directly to inquire about their flower policy and any guidelines they may have.
Once you have confirmed that flowers are permitted, you can choose an appropriate floral arrangement. Opt for bright and colourful flowers such as carnations, daisies, tulips, and sunflowers, as these are cheerful and uplifting. Yellow blooms represent hope and happiness, while orange flowers stand for courage. You can also incorporate the patient's birth flowers and favourite colours into the bouquet. However, it is crucial to avoid flowers with strong scents, as they may trigger allergies or irritate those with sensitive noses.
Consider the size of the arrangement, as large bouquets can take up too much space in a hospital room. A compact arrangement or a small potted plant, such as a succulent or orchid, can be a more convenient and longer-lasting option. If you choose to include a vase, ensure it is small and easy to display. Additionally, some hospitals may restrict certain types of vases due to safety concerns, as vase water can harbour bacteria and pose a risk to electrical equipment.
It is also recommended to choose a florist who specializes in allergy-friendly floral arrangements and is familiar with hospital delivery protocols. They can guide you in selecting the most suitable flowers and ensure proper delivery to the hospital.
Lastly, include a heartfelt note with your floral gift. A thoughtful message can add a special touch and let the recipient know that you are thinking of them during their hospital stay.
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Alternatives to flowers
Flowers are a common gift to bring to a hospitalised loved one, but they are not always the best option. Many hospitals have banned flowers from certain wards, such as intensive care, maternity, and oncology, due to the risks of harbouring mould, water-borne organisms, and bacteria, as well as triggering allergies.
Comfort and Convenience
Consider practical items that can provide comfort and convenience during their stay. For example:
- A soft blanket
- A fluffy robe
- Warm socks
- Clean underwear
- A comfortable pillow from home
- A water bottle cooler to ensure they have easy access to fresh water
- A long phone charger
Entertainment and Engagement
Hospital stays can be long and boring, so bringing something to entertain them can be a great idea:
- Magazines or books, if they are up for reading
- A gift card for ebooks or audiobooks if they prefer
- Board games or puzzles to pass the time and engage their mind
- A pack of cards
- A new video game or a handheld gaming device
Personal Care Items
Personal care items are often forgotten or not provided by the hospital, so these can make a thoughtful gift:
- A small bottle of hand lotion, as hospital hand sanitiser can be harsh on the skin
- Lip balm
- A toothbrush and toothpaste
- Deodorant
- A hairbrush
Help with Daily Tasks
Offer to help with their daily tasks and responsibilities to ease their burden:
- Walk their dog
- Water their plants
- Pick up their dry cleaning
- Prepare meals for them or their family
- Offer to drive them home after their stay
It is always a good idea to check with the hospital about any restrictions and with your loved one to see if there is anything specific they need. A simple card and your presence can also go a long way in showing your support.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on the hospital and the specific ward. Many hospitals, particularly ICUs and maternity wards, ban flowers for safety reasons, such as the risk of harbouring bacteria, pollen irritating allergies, and impeding urgent treatment. It's best to contact the hospital directly to ask about their policy.
Flowers may pose a safety risk to electrical equipment and patients' health. Vase water may contain bacteria, and flowers may hold mould or water-borne organisms, which could cause additional infections. Flowers are also hard to keep in small hospital rooms, and their strong scents may be unpleasant for patients.
Flowers are a common way to express love and support to a friend or family member in the hospital. A 2008 study found that patients in hospital rooms with flowers or potted plants used less pain medication and had lower blood pressure than those in rooms without them.
If flowers are not allowed, you can bring fruit or chocolates instead. You could also bring a small potted plant, like a succulent or orchid, which can last longer. Other alternatives include stuffed animals, board games, colouring books, or craft supplies.
Choose a local florist that specialises in allergy-friendly floral arrangements and is familiar with hospital delivery protocols. Opt for a small, compact arrangement with cheerful and colourful flowers, like carnations, daisies, tulips, and sunflowers. Avoid strong scents, and include a heartfelt note with your flowers.
