Things you should never do when visiting someone in the hospital

Neglect to wash and sanitize your hands

This needs to be done before you touch or even hand something to the patient. Proper handwashing with soap removes potentially dangerous germs, and even saves lives.

Arrive sick to the hospital

You don't want to spread any illness that could worsen the patient's fragile state. So if you have any cold or flu-like symptoms, or have recently been around someone sick, stay home.

Remove your mask in the hospital

Regardless of your vaccination status, COVID and other infectious diseases are still circulating. Do respect that face masks need to be worn in all healthcare settings.

Become overly emotional

While it's understandable that you may feel emotional, it's important that you don't let it overwhelm the patient. If it happens, make sure you step out of the room to compose yourself.

Compare medical horror stories

As a visitor, try to provide the patient a source of relaxation in order to help them stay focused on recovery. Sharing sad news of someone "sicker" or about 'bigger' tragedies will only distress them.

Bring outside clothes, pillows, or blankets

Hospitals are full of microorganisms that you don't want to take home. Bringing outside clothes, pillows, or blankets to then take home only creates a vessel for these bacteria to get into your space.

Bring young children

Unless it's absolutely necessary, don't bring young children. In-patient hospital visits can scare them, and there might also be age restrictions for hospital visitors.

Disrespect the roommate

Not all patients get to have a room of their own. So when visiting, remember that the roommate(s) is a patient too. They also need quiet and rest.

Bring a whole village

Too many people will not only possibly overwhelm the patient, it can also make others uncomfortable, including staff. Remember: you're in a hospital, not a recreational area.

Expect the patient to entertain

Patients are in hospitals to heal, not to chat or keep you busy. It may be better for them to sleep or just rest rather than having a conversation.

Don't smoke

Avoid smoking before and during your visit. The odor from smoke can be nauseating to many people. Some have a heightened sense of smell while taking certain drugs, which can make them feel sicker.

Pretend to understand

Even if you, or someone you know, went through something similar, each person and experience is unique. Pretending you’ve been there or completely understand can create distance.

Force prayer

If you're the type of person who likes to pray, you might want to do so with the patient. But sometimes they might be struggling with their faith or not even believe in what you do. So don't force any prayer on them.

Overstay your welcome

The hospital is a place for treatment and recovery, so keep that in mind when you plan your visit. In the end, patients need enough rest for proper healing.

Question a person's faith

Never question a patient's faith when visiting the hospital. Some develop comfort in religion to get through tough times, and others might be challenging what they believe in.

Speak for patients

Even if the patient is ill, they're still able to express their views and explain how they feel. Trying to speak for them is both disrespectful to them and the hospital staff.