Patients and visitors enjoy a cup of tea together

When I was a Staff Nurse, in those rare quiet moments, I would suggest that a nurse enjoyed a cup of tea with an anxious patient. The tea in front of the nurse sent a message to the patient that the nurse was not in a hurry and, therefore, had time to listen to their worries. This was often in the middle of the night when patients are more likely to feel anxious and there was sometimes more time.

Also, with the approval of the nursing staff, a gift idea for a patient who needs encouragement to drink, could be an interesting beverage (non-alcoholic!). Even better, bring in two or more cups, one for the patient and the rest for visitors. It is so much nicer to enjoy a drink with someone. It makes it more normal and more sociable. It also makes it easier to take more time. It is no longer a task but an enjoyable experience.

Jill