When you have a friend or family member that has been admitted into the hospital, conversations may be awkward for both parties.  I am a patient that will be in the hospital for about 4 weeks.  Here are a few things I have noticed that might be helpful.

1) Visits are good if the timing is right.  I like the the opportunity to talk with my family when they are here, they bring me up to date on what is going on with the family and the little ones that are not able to come visit in the hospital.  Visits are awkward when I am nauseous and have diarrhea.  My condition is changes daily and it is uncomfortable trying to hold a conversation when I am trying to contain my flattulance.   A quick phone call asking if the patient is up to visitors is a great idea.  Do not take it personally if they are not up to visits at the moment, tomorrow maybe different.  Respect the wishes, I would love to have my daughter with me at all times but I do not want her to see me when I am sweating, smelling (the medications give off a wierd smell) and running for the toilet.

2)  If you are planning to visit, follow through.  Do not say you are coming and do not show.  Looking forward to a visit is good, it gives the patient motivation to get out of bed and prepare for visitors.

3)  Ask before spending money on gifts.  Plants and flowers are nice, I would like to have some in my room.  Due to my low condition I can not have either in my room.  I also like fresh fruit, love canteloupe, but can not have fresh fruits or vegetables.

4) It is natural to say to the patient, "let me know if you need anything".  I do not want you to make a special trip but if you are at a Walgreens or CVS and ask "can I bring you something?" chances are good I may need something.

5) As much as I love my nieces and nephews a hospital is not a place for children under 12 years of age.

These are just a few things that have come up during my stay here.  I am confined to my floor because my blood counts are so low.  There is little to do, so I write these guides and reviews.  It is like a breath of fresh air when I recieve a helpfulness vote.  I ask that you please check the "yes" box below, each vote is like a "Get Well" card from a long lost friend. Hopefully this brief article has been of some help to you.