Caring for hospitals

Hospitals are the places where lives are saved, health is restored, and hope is rekindled. They are sanctuaries of healing, where doctors and nurses work tirelessly to mend bodies and spirits. No doubt there have been cases of some mishaps as well but we cannot paint

However, the effectiveness of healthcare institutions doesn't solely depend on the expertise of medical professionals; it also hinges on the behavior and conduct of the individuals who visit these places. It is essential that we, as patients' attendants and visitors, exercise civic sense and promote a sense of belonging within our hospitals.
Recently, I spent three days at the Associated Hospital of GMC Baramulla, and I was deeply impressed by the dedication of the sanitation staff and sweepers.

Their relentless efforts to maintain cleanliness within the hospital are commendable. They ensure that the floors, toilet blocks, and washrooms in both the post-operative and medical wards are cleaned multiple times a day, creating a hygienic environment for patients and their families. The unwavering commitment of the sanitation staff is truly heartening and deserves our appreciation.
However, amidst this dedication, I could not help but notice certain disheartening aspects of our behavior as attendants.
It is crucial that we treat hospital property with care it deserves, considering the hard work put in by the sanitation staff.

Instead of using the conveniently placed dustbins adjacent to the washrooms, I observed solid waste being irresponsibly thrown into the washroom sinks or at times from the windows of the second or first floor which speaks volumes about the civic sense among us. Despite repeated requests and placing dustbins at several corners, the attendants did not mend their way which forced the hospital authorities to erect plastic sheets on the windows and block it permanently.

We must make use of the provided dustbins and use the washrooms and toilet blocks for their intended purpose.
Another pressing issue I encountered was the number of attendants accompanying patients. While it is understandable that some patients may require additional assistance and support, it has become a routine for groups of six to seven attendants to crowd the wards meant for a single patient. This overcrowding not only disrupts the peace of the hospital but also hinders the medical staff in their duties.
It is essential that we maintain discipline within the wards and consider the needs of other patients.

One specific incident during my visit highlighted this issue. I was attending to my ailing friend in the post-operative ward during the morning hours, which is typically the scheduled time for doctor rounds.
Extra people are usually not allowed in the wards during this time, and the security guards have to remind attendees of patients to leave and allow the doctors to see the patients. It was disheartening to see that such reminders had to be made twice or thrice necessarily as the attendants are reluctant to leave the ward.

One particular incident involved an attendant playing music on his cell phone at a high volume in the post-operative ward, disrupting the doctor's round. The doctor had to patiently request the attendant to allow his and his team to complete the round without disturbing other patients. Such behavior is not in line with the decorum of a hospital and should be avoided. Interestingly, the doctor was completely within his rights to be rude to ridicule the attendant but he preferred to be calm and shout or yell at the attendant who lost in the music.
Even more alarming was the observation of some attendants using the washrooms in the post-operative ward as smoking zones. Smoking within the hospital premises is not only against the rules but also shows a lack of basic civility and respect for the health and well-being of others.

While it is important to hold hospital administrations accountable for the quality of care they provide, we must first be responsible for our own actions and conduct.
Our behavior as attendants in these health institutions matters. Let us remember that hospitals are places of healing and recovery, and our role as attendants is not just to support our loved ones but also to ensure a conducive and respectful environment for all patients.

By exercising civic sense and promoting a sense of belonging within our hospitals, we can contribute to a cleaner, safer, and more respectful healthcare environment for everyone. Let's be the change we want to see.

Hospitals are more than just buildings as they are symbols of hope and healing. Let us treat them with the reverence and care they deserve, and together, we can create a positive and harmonious atmosphere that benefits all.