A Physician's Guide: Supporting Hospitalized Loved Ones

By: Winston T. Capel, MD, MBA, FACS, FAANS

Hospitalization can be a challenging and stressful experience, not just for the patient but also for their family and friends.

As a neurosurgeon with years of experience, I've witnessed the importance of a strong support network in a patient's journey to recovery. In this article, I'll provide insights into how best to support a family member or friend who is being hospitalized, drawing from my perspective as a surgeon.

The stress of disease is compounded by hospitalization. Hospitalization completely disrupts one’s life. A natural reaction is to feel isolated and alone. The presence of a loved one or friend can be an important source of emotional support. Your presence communicates to the patient your love and concern. Disease and treatments are milestones in one’s life and this provides great service opportunities for friends and loved ones. You will find this experience in their service to be very gratifying. Bonds will be strengthened and cherished memories created.

Healthcare involves complex communications. Disease can impair language function in both comprehension and expression. As providers communicate essential communications to patients it is helpful to have a friend or family member present to hear and help patients understand these communications both in interpretation and memory of what is communicated to patients by providers. Also, friends or family can help communicate to providers concerns or lack of understanding when present. Diseases and treatments can cause patients to become confused, disoriented causing them to act or say things not reflective of the patient’s true self. Family can help “run interference” for the patient in these situations.

Hospitalized patients are almost always transported to hospital by someone else. Patients commonly worry about being an imposition to family and friends. Having a friend or family member offer and provide transportation is one less thing for a hospitalized patient to worry about.

Stay Informed and Ask Questions:

Understanding the patient's condition and treatment plan is crucial. Don't hesitate to ask the medical team questions to gain clarity.

Take notes during discussions with healthcare providers to keep track of important information.

Be a Calm and Comforting Presence:

Hospitalization can be frightening, and your loved one may feel vulnerable. Be there to offer emotional support, provide comfort, and lend a listening ear.

Keep conversations positive and reassuring, focusing on their recovery and progress.

Understand that hospital rooms can be crowded with medical staff and visitors. Respect your loved one's need for privacy and quiet time.

Encourage them to express their preferences regarding visitors and information sharing with the medical team.

Advocate Gently and Effectively:

If your loved one is unable to communicate their needs or concerns, step in as their advocate. Work collaboratively with the medical team to ensure their best interests are served.

Balance assertiveness with respect for medical expertise to maintain a positive relationship with the healthcare providers.

Maintain Open Communication:

Keep family members and friends involved in the patient's care informed about updates and changes in the treatment plan.

A coordinated approach ensures that everyone is on the same page regarding the patient's condition and progress.

Create a Comforting Environment:

Bring items from home that provide comfort, such as their favorite pillow, photos, or a familiar blanket.

Personal touches can make the hospital room feel less sterile and more like a safe, familiar space.

Show Appreciation for the Medical Team:

Healthcare professionals work tirelessly to provide the best care possible. Express gratitude for their efforts, as a positive and respectful attitude can foster a collaborative relationship.

A simple thank-you note or gesture can go a long way in showing appreciation.

Take Care of Yourself:

Being a caregiver can be emotionally taxing. Don't neglect your own physical and emotional well-being. Seek support from friends, family, or a therapist if needed.

It's essential to recharge so that you can continue providing support effectively.

Prepare for Aftercare and Rehabilitation:

Understand that recovery often extends beyond the hospital stay. Be informed about post-hospitalization care and rehabilitation requirements.

Help plan and coordinate resources to support your loved one's recovery journey.

Celebrate Milestones and Small Wins:

Recovery can be a long and challenging process. Celebrate every achievement, whether it's a successful surgery, improved mobility, or a day with reduced pain.

Acknowledging progress can boost morale and motivate your loved one to continue their efforts.

Conclusion:

Be present when providers round if possible:

Communicating directly with the treating physician is best accomplished when he or she is in a hospital room conducting rounds. This is when decisions are being made and progress measured. Ask the physician what time they normally round and be there in advance to understand needs of the patient and prepare questions so communications can be most efficient.

Spend the night if you can:

If an emergency arises and the patient cannot get the nurses attention problems can compound. Nurses are taking care of multiple patients and you may have to go find the nurse in an emergency. At night there are fewer aids to assist the nurse and if the nurse is very busy they will prioritize their time and your family member will need you.