Tessa Quinn
Being in the hospital can be a lonely, scary, and stressful experience. It can be challenging to know what to do or bring to cheer up a loved one who is hospitalized. It is important to be aware of what your loved one might need or want, as well as what is permitted under hospital rules. Gifts can help lift the patient's spirits and relieve boredom, but it is also important to bring something that is appropriate and does not interfere with their recovery.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Gifts | Lava lamps, Himalayan salt lamps, essential oil diffusers, shawls, books, comfortable clothing, puzzles, games, videos games, board games, card games, coloring books, craft kits, soft pillows, blankets, slippers, headphones, flowers, balloons, stuffed animals, photo boards, collages, individually wrapped small gifts, notes, food |
| Actions | Sing or play music, spend quality time, decorate the room with pictures, bring in a familiar face to help with care |
| Practical Support | Offer to help with any tasks, pay for television service, cover parking costs, provide gift cards for the coffee shop or nearby restaurants, donate blood or blood products |
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What You'll Learn
Gifts to relieve boredom and cheer up the patient
A thoughtful gift can help relieve boredom and cheer up someone who is in the hospital. When choosing a gift, it's important to be aware of what the patient might need or want, as well as what is permitted under hospital rules.
Entertainment
- Books, magazines, and DVDs can provide entertainment and help pass the time.
- Puzzles and games can brighten spirits, especially if chosen based on the patient's interests. Board games like chess or backgammon can be a fun way to spend time with the patient.
- Video content can be a passive yet entertaining activity, especially if the patient is recovering from surgery and cannot do much else.
Comfort Items
- Soft blankets, pillows, and socks can make the patient's stay more comfortable and help them feel warm and cozy.
- Comfort items like lavender eye pillows or therapeutic head scratchers can help alleviate stress and aid in relaxation.
- A super-soft blanket can make the patient's stay much more comfortable and luxurious.
Practical Gifts
- An extra-long phone charger can be a thoughtful gift to ensure the patient can easily charge their device without worrying about outlet accessibility.
- Hand cream can help combat the dry skin that can result from the hospital environment.
- An instant coffee blend can be a welcome treat for the patient and their visitors, offering a better taste than the typical hospital coffee.
- An iTunes or Amazon gift card can allow the patient to choose their own entertainment or purchase items they may need.
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Comfort and support
If you are unable to be physically present, you could send a thoughtful gift to let your loved one know you are thinking of them. It is important to be aware of what your loved one might need or want, as well as what is permitted under hospital rules. For example, personal care items, books, comfortable clothing, and puzzles and games are all things your loved one might appreciate. You could also bring comfort items like a soft pillow or their favourite blanket. If they have a special interest, like chess, you could bring a board game and play with them.
If your loved one is in hospital for a long time, you could decorate their room with pictures, or encouraging quotes, or bring a small stuffed animal to represent a beloved pet. You could also bring flowers, but it is worth checking with the hospital first, as they are not allowed in every part of the hospital. If your loved one is feeling anxious, you could bring something to help them relax, such as a lava lamp, a Himalayan salt lamp, or an essential oil diffuser.
If you are unsure whether or not to bring an item into the ward, it is always best to speak to a member of staff.
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Practical items
One practical item that can be helpful is an extension cord. Hospital rooms often have limited outlets that are located far from the bed, so an extension cord can provide added convenience and accessibility for the patient.
Another practical gift idea is a pair of warm, grippy socks. Hospital rooms can be cold, and circulation issues due to medication can make feet especially chilly. So, a pair of cosy socks can provide comfort and help regulate body temperature.
If the patient enjoys listening to music or audiobooks, headphones can be a great gift. They allow the patient to listen to their favourite tunes or podcasts without disturbing others in the ward.
For patients who enjoy reading, a book or a Kindle can be a wonderful way to pass the time and take their mind off their illness. If the patient is an artist or enjoys crafts, consider gifting them an adult colouring book and some coloured pencils, or a "learn-a-craft" kit, such as crochet or knitting supplies.
Additionally, consider items that will make the patient's room more comfortable and familiar. For example, if they have a favourite blanket or pillow from home, bringing it to the hospital can provide a sense of comfort and improve their sleep quality.
It is always a good idea to check with the hospital about any restrictions or guidelines they may have regarding gifts and personal items.
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Thoughtful gifts
When a friend or family member is in the hospital, it can be challenging to choose the right gift. Some common gifts like flowers and food are not allowed in every part of the hospital. Here are some thoughtful gift ideas to consider:
Personal Care Items
Toiletries, comfortable clothing, warm socks, and a soft pillow from home can make a hospital stay more comfortable. If your loved one is feeling up to it, a hand or foot massage, manicure, or pedicure can be soothing.
Entertainment
Puzzles, books, and games can help relieve boredom and lift spirits. Choose something new or novel that will spark their interest, or bring a board game and play with them. Video games, puzzle packets, coloring books, and crafts are also good options. If your loved one is feeling well enough, offer to take them to the hospital cafeteria to get snacks.
Decorations
Brighten up the hospital room by decorating the walls with pictures, encouraging quotes, or drawings by young relatives or neighbors. If your loved one has a beloved pet, a small stuffed animal representing their cat or dog can be a comforting gift.
Practical Gifts
An extension cord, headphones, or a "learn a craft kit" with visual tutorials and supplies can be useful gifts. If your loved one is staying in an older wing of the hospital, a small lamp, such as a lava lamp or Himalayan salt lamp, can be a cozy addition to their room.
Quality Time
Sometimes, the greatest gift is simply spending time with your loved one. Being present and offering comfort and support can be a valuable part of the healing process. If your friend or family member is feeling distressed or anxious, sitting with them and showing that you care can make a big difference.
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Visiting etiquette
Visiting someone in the hospital can be a great way to show your support and brighten their day. However, it's important to be mindful of the patient's needs and follow hospital etiquette to ensure your visit is a positive experience for them. Here are some guidelines to follow when planning and making your visit:
Ask for Permission and Check Hospital Policies
It's important to ask the patient for permission before your visit. They may not feel up to having visitors, and it's essential to respect their wishes. Different hospitals have different visiting hours and policies, so be sure to check their website or contact them directly to confirm the best time for your visit. Some hospitals may have specific guidelines depending on the patient's condition or the unit they are in.
Be Mindful of the Patient's Needs and Comfort
Patients in hospitals often have weakened immune systems and are more susceptible to infections. If you have any symptoms that could be contagious, such as a cough, runny nose, rash, or diarrhoea, it's best to refrain from visiting and check in on your loved one via phone call or card. It's also recommended to wear a face mask to protect both yourself and the patient from airborne viruses. Avoid wearing strong perfumes or colognes, as the scent can be uncomfortable for the patient.
Respect Patient Privacy and Space
Always knock before entering the patient's room and be mindful of their personal space. Avoid asking probing questions about their condition unless they bring it up themselves. Respect their need for rest and keep your visits short. Visiting more frequently for shorter durations, such as half an hour, can be more beneficial for the patient's recovery. If the patient has a roommate, be considerate of their space and privacy as well.
Choose Appropriate Gifts
Bringing a gift can be a thoughtful way to show your support. However, it's important to choose gifts that are considerate and practical. Avoid fresh flowers, plants, and balloons without first checking with the hospital and the patient's roommate, as they may trigger allergies. Instead, opt for items such as books, magazines, puzzles, or a streaming service gift card to help pass the time. Non-perishable snacks can also be a welcome treat, but always check with the hospital first, as some patients may have dietary restrictions.
Follow Hospital Rules and Instructions
Hospitals have various rules and instructions in place to ensure the safety and well-being of patients and staff. Respect and follow these rules, including any posted signage and instructions from staff. This includes sanitizing your hands regularly and turning off or silencing your cell phone to avoid interfering with patient-care devices.
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Frequently asked questions
Some gifts that can help cheer up someone in the hospital include:
- Comfort items like soft pillows, blankets, or their favourite slippers
- Books, puzzles, or games that can help relieve boredom
- Personal care items or comfortable clothing
- Decorations for their room, such as pictures, drawings, or encouraging quotes
- Small indulgences like a hand or foot massage, manicure, or pedicure
- Food, but check with the hospital first to ensure there are no dietary restrictions
Simply being present and offering comfort and support is one of the best ways to help a loved one in the hospital. You can also help by offering to pick up any slack in their life to relieve some of their stress. If they have a long-term condition, creating a "grab bag" with key items and documentation can be useful in case of an unexpected hospital admission.
It's important to be mindful of the patient's needs and the hospital's rules. Avoid scented or flavoured items, as well as cluttering up their space with too many gifts or decorations. Do not bring flowers, as they are not allowed in every part of the hospital and may bother other patients with allergies.
