Precautions

• Approach the patient in the usual way, with a handshake, a pat on the shoulder, or a hug.
• Sit beside the patient and relieve his loneliness.
• Talk about something you normally care about, and do not bring up his illness unless he is willing to do so. Select appropriate time to visit the patient, ad it would be preferable to call family members by phone first to inquire about the situation.
• Console the patient with empathy and remember that sympathy can turn him into a powerless person and make him irritable.
• Patients may fear pain, death, and symptoms of discomfort. If they are willing to talk, listen and share the fear. Don't change the subject.
• Be honest with and genuinely care for patients. In fact, "care" is the best gift.
• Get him to talk about his feelings of unease, his good memories, and treat him like a normal person.
• Pray for and bless the patients and their families.
• Decide the duration of stay according to the patient's situation. It was the time to leave if the patient appears tired, restless, uncomfortable, is frequently looking at the floor, ceiling or closes his eyes.
• Send greeting cards, give phone calls or flowers and fruit gifts when appropriate.
• If the patient is giving his last words, don't try to ignore him or interrupt him.

Visit etiquette

• Do not take the initiative to talk about the patient's symptoms and illness, as it may increase the patient's anxiety.
• Do not recommend other therapies and medications, as it will only raise the patient's doubts or increase family members' guilt.
• Please don't pretend to be a teacher. If a patient has problems, encourage him to communicate with doctors and professionals.
• Empathize with the patient and don't go out of your way to offer comfort or avoid the feelings that are being expressed.
• Don't give the patient any unrealistic assurance, such as "You'll get better soon" because the patient knows the best about his condition.