Take-aways can be a great ,occasional, alternative to hospital food

Hospital food, however good, can be boring after a while. If the ward agree, ask if you can bring in a take-away occasionally. If they refuse, ask why and point them in the direction of this site, and others, that extol the benefits.

Fish and chips, pizza, burgers etc are relatively easy to bring in as they don't tend to leave a lingering smell.

Indian, chinese and other aromatic dishes may need to be eaten outside or in an area away from other patients.

My mother loved sampling a few mouthfuls of cod and chips. She enjoyed the taste but she clearly enjoyed the 'mischief' of it all. With the permission of the staff I was able to offer chips to several patients and relatives in the ward.

The chips were delicious and also provided another opportunity for a small get-together.

The Royal Brompton Hospital allow some of their patients with cystic fibrosis to order in take-aways from their hospital rooms. The wonderful modern matron initiated the idea, realising the psychological benefits of allowing this practice.

Jill