Rules and timings for visiting in the hospital – so that the patient gets the right environment
Visiting a loved one admitted in the hospital is both a joy and a worry. We want our presence to boost the patient’s morale, but at the same time we also have to keep in mind that there are many other people in the hospital who are undergoing treatment.
The visiting hours and recommendations for visitors can be set at the discretion of individual hospitals. These regulations are established to maintain a calm and safe atmosphere enabling patient comfort.
Visiting time – when to visit and when not to
Most hospitals allow visits from 10 am to 8 pm, but this is not the same everywhere.
- General ward – Often visits are allowed in two shifts, such as 10 am to 1 pm and 4 pm to 8 pm.
- ICU and critical care – Here the time is very limited, such as only half an hour, because the patient’s condition is critical.
- Maternity ward – Visiting time is kept short for the comfort of the mother and child.
Tip – Before going, call the hospital helpline number and confirm the time, so that you don’t have to wait there.
Adopt these methods during the visit
Visiting someone in the hospital does not only mean talking, but also taking care of both the environment and the patient.
- Less people should go – The patient can get tired due to the crowd, so there should not be more than 2-3 people at a time.
- Take permission first – Knock on the door before entering the room or call out if you are removing the curtain.
- Speak softly – Keep your voice low so that other patients are not disturbed.
- Follow the rules – If wearing a mask is necessary or children are not allowed in, then follow it.
- Take care of the time – The patient can get tired due to a long visit, so keep the visit short.
- Ask before taking food – Many patients have been given a special diet by the doctor, so do not give anything without asking.
Health precautions
The risk of infection is high in the hospital, so take these steps for your and the patient’s health –
- Wash hands thoroughly before and after meeting or use sanitizer.
- If you have cough, cold, fever or any infectious disease, postpone the visit.
- Wear a mask as per the hospital policy.
- Avoid sitting too close or touching a patient with weak immunity.
Why are these rules necessary?
Many people wonder why so many rules for meeting? The reason is clear –
- The patient gets adequate rest and sleep
- Doctors and nurses can do their work easily
- The risk of spreading the disease to both patients and visitors is reduced
- The hospital environment remains calm and conducive to treatment
Small ways to make the visit special
- Small gift – Flowers or a get well card can improve the patient’s mood, but do take permission first.
- Speak positive things – Do not say things that make the patient worried, but encourage him.
- Silence the phone – The sound of the mobile can disturb the patient and others.
- Check the fatigue of the patient – If he looks tired, end the visit early.
Special rules for ICU visit
The condition of the patient in the ICU is critical, so the environment here is most controlled.
- Only close relatives allowed
- 1-2 people at a time
- Wearing protective gear like gown, mask, gloves is mandatory
- Very less time, only 10-15 minutes
- It is necessary to take permission from the staff before touching the patient
If you are going to the hospital for the first time…
- Reach a little early, as getting a visitor pass and parking can take time.
- Keep your identity card with you.
- Be prepared for the hospital security check, especially in big hospitals.
Conclusion – A visit done in the right way is the real help
Visiting a patient in the hospital is not just a happy moment of meeting, but is a big thing for their health and mental state.
If we follow the visiting time, etiquette and precautions, not only will the patient recover quickly but the atmosphere for others will also be pleasant.
