Visitors at the Hospital Bedside

Course overview

Visitation policies have been in place since hospitals came into existence and have changed throughout the years. As healthcare has become more technical and complex, the role of family members at the bedside has also changed. Visitors can provide measurable support for patients. At the same time, some visitors can complicate medical care, thus making it difficult to ensure safe and effective interventions. The nurse can find a functional balance between these competing needs. That balance will come from effective, clear communication with colleagues and visitors.