Patient Comforts: Home-Like Surroundings

Patient Comforts: Home-Like Surroundings Patients that are hospitalized for a prolonged period of time, or patients in nursing facilities, can benefit from feeling as though the environment they are in is a little less clinical and more homelike. In a hospital environment, space is limited, but there are a few things that can make the patient feel more at home.

Hospital Stays  Pictures of loved ones can not only bring comfort to patients, they can serve as a reminder that someone needs them to get better. The face of a smiling grandchild is a great inspiration to become mobile and be released. The problem is pictures in frames can occupy quite a bit of space, and could get in the way of medical equipment. A digital photo frame is a great idea, photos can randomly change and most can hold numerous pictures. Another option may be to make an 11x14 collage and secure it with clear magnets to the patient's closet in the room. It won't be in the way, but great family photos are still within view.  Bed Linens from home can make a patient more comfortable. Just a simple favorite quilt or pillow combined with hospital linens can help induce sleep as it provides some comfort from home.  Towel(s) from home can be a good idea, bringing just one keeps down any confusion, especially if you can select a bright color and not white.

It alerts housekeeping that it's a personal item so they won't pack it in with other laundry. Showering, followed by using a fresh towel from home is much easier on the skin than hospital towels, which can be rather abrasive on the skin.

Related: Infographic : 5 Perks of Being a Nurse Anything that is small and not cluttering or in the way of others should be fine for the patient to have in the space, just regulate and set limits on how much is brought in, again, clutter or items that are in the way cannot be tolerated. Fabric bags with long handles can hang over hospital tables to secure books, etc., and this helps keep things neat and organized.

Electronic Devices Tablets and laptops can help to occupy time. Skype can be a great way to visit with family virtually, just be aware if it is a semi private room, loud conversations may need to be avoided. There are several sites that permit free downloads of books for reading enjoyment, and apps such as texture offer a variety of magazine subscriptions for a very reasonable cost. In addition, who does not have any games on their tablet or phone; there is no

end to the uses of a tablet when confined to a hospital bed.

Hobbies Some people may have hobbies such as knitting, sewing, or needlepoint work, which could help pass the time and make things seem more like home. Any hobby that is easily stored and can be done in bed may help pass the time.

Things to Avoid Anytime there are liberties being offered, unfortunately sometimes things can be taken too far. There are some items that should not be permitted, some for safety reasons, and some for consideration of others.  Anything scented, such as perfumes, air fresheners, candles, plug in scents, scented body powder hair spray, or anything that emits an odor. Not only can it be a bother to other patients, some may have extreme allergies to certain products.  Nothing loud, tables with games are fine, however ear plugs should be used to avoid bothering roommates with annoying noises.  Nothing big, bulky or anything that will be in the way of medical staff that are providing treatment.  Food items from outside the hospital should be very limited if allowed at all. Other patients, in particular a roommate may be on a restricted diet, and strong food odors can be a bother. The patient themselves may also be on a restricted eating plan, however, occasionally loved ones try to supply additional food. Hospital food may not be gourmet, however, if the doctor has prescribed a particular diet to follow, it should be acknowledged.

Related: Where do Nurses Work?

You want patients to feel at ease in the hospital, and a few comforts of home are nice and can make the environment less clinical. Just don't hesitate to enforce rules if family members bring in anything inappropriate or that is in the way. Patient safety and care are top priority, as well as any roommate, semi private rooms are meant to be shared equally and respectfully.

Related: Highly Skilled Nurse Kathleen Lovell Bratby, RN, Ed.D, will be Featured in the Worldwide Leaders in Healthcare Please follow us on Facebook, Linkedin, Pinterest and Twitter