Most of us avoid the hospital whenever possible. Going to the doctor is no fun, and having an emergency or procedure that requires a hospital visit can be even worse. However, it is inevitable that at some times in your life, the hospital will be necessary.
Visits to the hospital don’t have to be something we dread. However, it’s easy to fall into the habit of assuming things will go wrong while you’re there. It’s important to have a plan while you’re there to keep yourself calm and relaxed as best as possible. Here are a few things that you can do to ensure that you stay calm at the hospital:
Look For Familiar Equipment
If you know some of the standard procedures that will be required of your visit, such as blood draws, don’t be afraid to look around at the equipment in the room to remind yourself you’ve seen some of it before. For instance, equipment used for blood collection, like the Greiner Bio-One butterfly needle, is something you’ve likely seen when you donate blood for a blood bank. Though at first glance, you may be startled by all the different equipment in the room, be sure to remind yourself it’s all very common.
Have Loved Ones Check on You
One of the best ways to be sure that you relax while in the hospital is to have loved ones check in on you regularly. Talking to them can help ease your mind and remind you aren’t alone. They can give you a much-needed distraction from the feeling of isolation you may get if you have to be alone in your hospital room (which has become very common since the rise of COVID-19).
Your mind tends to race much more while you’re alone, and this can lead you to irrational thinking, but you can find a great sense of security to know that your loved ones are checking on you.
Know Your Medical Team
Take time to learn the names of nurses who will be attending you, and be sure that you have the information for all of your doctors available and nearby at all times. Not only is this the best way to make a more human connection to your attending physicians and staff, but it can also put your mind at ease to have normal conversations with them and take your mind off of your ailment.
Stay Relaxed and Get Well
Going to the hospital is anxiety-provoking for anybody. However, when it is essential that you go, you can go prepared with positive thinking rather than being afraid and letting your anxiety overcome you. Take a look at your surroundings, have loved ones check in with you, and know your medical team well to set your mind at ease that your visit will go smoothly.
