FOR PATIENTS

Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, to protect you, your loved one, hospital staff, and the public, you will not be able to visit your loved one in the hospital. We want to make sure you can stay connected and engaged during this time with your family or loved ones. 

Things You Can Do at the Time of Hospital Admission:

• Tell your hospital team who will make decisions for you if you are unable. This individual will be your legally authorized health care representative (or health care power of attorney). Give the person’s name and phone number(s).  
• We can only give information to your family members with your permission. We know many people care about you. Please choose one person who will talk to your hospital team during your stay. It is best if this is your legally authorized health care representative. That person can then share the information with your family and community.
• Give the name and phone number(s) for a back-up person.
• Talk to your family and community about how much information you want to be share about your illness, how to share it, and who should receive information about your care.
• Let your hospital team know what kind of technology your primary contact person has. Do they have a smartphone (iPhone or Android), tablet (iPad or Chromebook), or computer prefer to use a camera and the internet? 
• Give your hospital team a copy of your advance directive/living will if you have one. (You can also have a family member mail it or drop it off later if you don’t have it now.) Most importantly, talk to your hospital team about your values and what is important to you.
• Plan how you will stay in touch with family and friends while you are here. You can use the hospital’s phone at your bedside. We can also help you connect your smartphone, tablet, or computer to our free hospital internet. Be sure that you have labeled the charging cord and your device with your name. 

Things You Can Do for Your Loved Ones and Yourself During the Hospital Stay:

• Keep a diary or journal. 
• Write down the names of your hospital team members to keep things clear. It’s okay to ask them their role on the team.
• Write down the name and phone number for your hospital room or floor.
• Write down any questions you have for your hospital team or your family. That way, you can ask them all at once, when they are available.
• You may want to write down your thoughts and feelings to help you process what is going on and perhaps share it with your family and friends.
• Tell your hospital team about yourself! Knowing you will help them to take the best care of you.
• Ask your family not to send food or flowers. We may not be able to deliver your cards or other items during this time.
• Reach out to your community outside of the hospital to reduce feeling alone during this challenging time. Many faith leaders and community organizations can connect with you by phone.
• Contact our pastoral care support team. These individuals are available for spiritual support and work closely with your hospital team to be sure you feel supported.
• Make a plan for keeping your family and friends up to date. You or your family can set up a CaringBridge account or similar webpage that can help you remain connected with your community. Family and friends can leave you messages of support, and you can provide updates on how you are doing.

Things to Note When Admitted to the Hospital:

• Hospital Room Number
• Phone number of my Case Manager
• My bedside phone number
• Nursing station phone number