Hospital etiquette for medical professionals, patients, and visitors

Post date: May 15, 2019 4:9:28 PM

The hospital should always be a safe and comfortable place that prioritizes

health. However, busy emergency rooms, panicking patients, and noisy visitors can turn it into an agonizing sight and experience. Occupational safety and health experts like Martin Sanders, Ph.D. then have to remind people entering the hospitals to keep to the following etiquette to reduce stress levels in health facilities:

For medical professionals

Doctors and nurses should always inform patients or the person accompanying them of the process. Explaining the necessary procedures, treatment, and other steps briefly will ease their mind. When asking critical questions, they should always pay attention to the patient's answers as guidance to the right diagnosis and treatment. Making an appropriate introduction stating their position and specialization is also necessary upon facing new patients.

For patients

Patients should always be honest with their physicians, especially when the latter is in the process of reaching a diagnosis. During check-ups or treatment, they should also be respectful of hospital staff and adhere to the rules. Those entering the hospital with communicable diseases are required to wear masks to prevent the spread of virus and bacteria.

For visitors

Health professionals like Martin Sanders stress securing patients’ permission before visiting them in the hospital. Some patients prefer to rest without distractions, especially after undergoing a critical medical procedure. Allowed visitors must also ask before bringing food and flowers since some patients have to follow a special diet or might have allergies. They must also observe silence to avoid disturbing other patients. Lastly, visitors must respect the visiting hours to allow the patient and caregivers a good rest

Captain Martin Lloyd Sanders, Ph.D., has years of experience in the field of occupational safety and health. He recently obtained a certification as an Associate Safety Professional (ASP) awarded by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals. Visit this blog to read other similar articles.