What You Can Do To Help

There are many things you can do to help while your family member is in the Critical Care Center.

Bring in any papers like a Living Will or an Advanced Healthcare Directive, and a list of current medications taken at home.

Valuables or medications brought to the Hospital should be taken home.  Please let the nurse know what you are taking home. 

When you arrive, please check with the nurse and we will update you on how your loved one is doing.

Please do not give the patient any food or drink (including water) without first checking with the nurse. Even though they may be hungry or thirsty, supplying food or drink may be harmful for their condition.

When visiting, please try to limit your stay to 15 minutes.  Rest and sleep are an important part of the patient's healing process.

Sometimes having favorite music playing softly and family photos in the room can comfort.  For some patients quiet is very important.  Please ask the nurse and they can assist you with music playing, etc.

Sometimes patients can get confused, forgetful, angry, or restless and occasionally, patients can become agitated by too much stimulation.  Often this is due to the illness, medications, or being in a different and strange place.  Remind them what day it is, where they are, and why they are here. Be sure to talk with the nurse about your concerns.

Please ask the nurse for additional ways you can be involved in the daily care of your loved one. There are many things you can do and the nurse can offer some recommendations.