How to Choose Gifts for the Hospital Patient
When choosing a gift for a hospital patient, think twice before giving flowers or candy. When a person is sick, these items can cause sensitivities, so you may want to check first with a family member of the patient as to whether these items are appropriate. Any gift that is positive, cheerful, inspiring, comforting or funny will be welcomed by a hospital patient.
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Instructions
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Find out how long the patient will be in the hospital. If the visit is short, the patient would probably appreciate items that are cheerful and uplifting like a potted plant or balloon. If the visit is long, the patient will appreciate items to help her hang in there over the long haul, such as books, magazines or something electronic. Always make sure electronics are approved by the hospital staff in case they might interfere with the patient's equipment.
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Stuffed animals are your best choice to cheer up and comfort a patient. Whether the hospital stay is short or long, a stuffed animal is practical and will last outside of the hospital room.
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Most hospital rooms have TVs. But find out from the hospital if there's a way to connect a DVD player to the TV. If not, consider bringing a small TV with a DVD player included for the patient, if the electronics won't interfere with anything in the hospital room.
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Hand-held video games, crossword puzzles, magazines, novels, a deck of playing cards or a small craft project, such as a jewelry beading kit can help pass away some time.
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Toiletries like hand sanitizer, moisturizer and shampoo; manicure sets; and slippers, socks and underwear are much appreciated gifts as well. If the hospital patient is a girl or woman, consider getting a small sampler set of makeup, like eye shadows or lip glosses. Being sick can make a patient feel unkept and unattractive, so anything that can help the patient with grooming will be appreciated.
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Pillows and blankets will go a long way to making the hospital patient more comfortable. Beds are often uncomfortable with little cushioning, so any combination of extra pillows and blankets can make being bedridden a little more bearable.
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Tips & Warnings
When choosing a gift, consider the hospital patient's illness, the medication being taken, and their likes and hobbies.
Avoid heavily scented items that could cause allergies or sensitivities, as well as any foods that could interfere with the patient's diet.
Ask hospital staff for permission first when bringing electronics items, in case they would interfere with medical monitoring equipment.
Flowers are beautiful, but consider how they will be maintained throughout the patient's stay. Changing water and adding flower food could be an inconvenience. Only give flowers for visitors on a short stay or if someone can maintain them.
References
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Comments
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A designer hospital gown is a great gift too! It is personal and definately makes the patient feel better. My daughters had friends and family write messages on mine - it was the perfect gift - made me laugh and feel so loved!
