When a loved one is in the hospital, there are certain gifts they will need. They might need a few extra hours of sleep, a bit of quiet time and some comfort.
Some patients will need to rest their eyes while undergoing surgery or treatment, so getting them a nice eye mask can help them stay comfortable. You could also bring a soft pillow or blanket to keep them warm.
Another option is to get them a scented hand soap and lotion that can be used in the washroom. These are a bit more expensive than the traditional ones you would find at your local drug store, but they are worth it in the long run because they will help them feel more relaxed.
If you are unsure what to get someone, here are some suggestions:
Fruit
Fresh fruit can be a welcome change from the bland hospital food. Make sure to check with the person you are gifting to be sure they are allowed to have fruit in their room and that they can enjoy it during their hospital stay.
Books and magazines
If the patient is feeling down, a good book can help them take their mind off their illness and focus on something else. Magazines are easy to flip through, and fast-paced novels can entertain them for longer periods of time, too.
Music
A pair of headphones makes it possible for them to listen to their favorite tunes without disturbing their surroundings. You can also give them a portable music player so they can play their own playlists.
Soothing massages and facials are a great way for doctors to relax after a long day of work. Soothing massages are especially useful for surgeons, who often work with their hands on patients in a high-pressure environment, according to Jennifer Haythe, an assistant professor of medicine at Columbia University medical school.
Similarly, dermatologist Marisa Garshick says she likes to give her fellow doctors Vaseline because it “locks in moisture and protects skin from the harsh chemicals that are part of the job.” She suggests this set of four travel-size jars. Each has a different “flavor”: aloe for light hydration, cocoa butter for conditioning and vitamin E for nourishing their skin.
Other Beauty Gifts
Moisturizers, lip balms and hand creams are all good options for doctors who spend a lot of their time with their hands in the washroom. These are easy to carry and come in a variety of fragrances.
They also contain ingredients to prevent infections, which is important for people who have to deal with germs on a regular basis.
Personal caregifts are also a great idea for doctors who are tired and stressed out from their daily routines, since they may have trouble finding time to take care of themselves. The gift of a bath or spa package can be particularly thoughtful for dentists who are always busy taking care of their patients, she notes.
A thoughtful gift can be just the thing to brighten up their day and remind them that they are valued and loved.
