- Remember that your loved one is where they need to be. We all hate hospitals but the doctors and nurses are trained to help your loved one in ways that you cannot. If things get worse they are only feet away in most cases.
- Remember your faith. Now is a time for prayer not only for your loved one but for everyone. Pray for your loved ones healing. Pray for yourself in managing the stress, anxiety, and fear that comes with having a sick love one. Pray for the well being of and guidance for all of the doctors, nurses, pharmacists and staff involved in your loved ones care.
- Reach out to your support system. Send a quick text to your friends and family. These would be the people who will not only check in on your loved one but on you as well.
- Assuming you have a few minutes before heading to the ER take a moment to grab all of the medications that your loved one is currently taking. It is much easier for the staff to take your bag of meds and document everything than for you and the patient to try and remember the names and dosages of everything.
- Feel free to ask questions. The doctors and nurses want you to understand what is happening. Just be tactful. For example asking what is that medication or test for is way better than yelling why you doing that?
- Do not get annoyed when every new doctor or nurse who enters the room asks you or the patient to repeat what brought them into the ER. I know it is tiresome and annoying but it is their way of making sure that no one misses anything. Kind of like a checks and balance.
- I'm sure all the nurses would agree with me on this one. The nurses are the ones who actually care of your loved one while the doctors provide diagnosis and draft orders. Treat the nurses with respect. Say please and thank you. Do not ask them for things for yourself only ask on behalf of the patient. Stay out of the way and do what simple things you can to help your loved one when the nurse is busy. Fix your loved ones pillows and blankets, help them to the bathroom and with their food (if allowed).
- Bring your own entertainment. A smartphone or ipad can really help you past the time. Don't forget your charger.
Tell me how you got through it when you had to go to the ER with a loved one. Did i miss anything? What tips would you add?