Can You Have Flowers Delivered to a Hospital?
Harry Bourke • January 14, 2024
Sending Flowers to a Hospital
Sending flowers to a hospital patient can be a thoughtful way to express care and brighten their day. However, it’s not always straightforward. Various factors and policies must be considered to ensure your kind gesture is appropriate and welcomed.
Understanding Hospital Flower Delivery Policies
General Rules and Regulations
Hospital policies on flower deliveries can vary but commonly include patient safety and health restrictions. Most hospitals prohibit flowers in intensive care units due to potential infection risks. Flowers in soil or potted plants are often not allowed due to the risk of bacteria and fungi. It’s also common for hospitals to have specific delivery times and designated areas where deliveries can be made.
Variations by Hospital Type and Location
The policies can differ significantly based on the type of hospital and its location. For example, a maternity ward might have different guidelines than a general one. Similarly, hospitals in urban areas might have different protocols than those in rural settings due to logistical factors.
Choosing the Right Flowers for Hospital Patients
Choosing the right flowers for hospital patients involves considering both the hospital environment and the patient’s condition. Here are some tips to help you select the most appropriate and thoughtful floral arrangement:
- Non-Allergenic Flowers: Opt for hypoallergenic flowers, which are less likely to trigger allergies. Flowers like roses, carnations, and chrysanthemums are generally safe bets. Avoid heavily scented flowers like lilies, jasmine, or freesias.
- Bright and Cheerful Colors: Choose bright and cheerful colours to uplift the patient’s spirits. Vivid colours like yellows, pinks, and light blues are often recommended for their mood-boosting qualities.
- Size of the Arrangement: Consider a small to medium-sized arrangement, as hospital rooms often have limited space. A compact bouquet is easier to manage and comfortably fits on a bedside table.
- Hardiness and Longevity: Select flowers that last longer and require minimal maintenance. Varieties like sunflowers, alstroemeria, and daisies are known for their longevity.
- Avoid Pollen-Heavy Flowers: Steer clear of flowers that shed a lot of pollen, which can be messy and potentially problematic for patients with allergies or respiratory issues.
- Safe and Secure Vase: Ensure the bouquet comes in a sturdy, non-breakable vase. Many hospitals prefer vases not made of glass to avoid the risk of breakage.
- Consider Potted Plants: A potted plant can be a great alternative to cut flowers if the hospital allows it. They last longer and can be a continual reminder of your support. Small, easy-care plants like succulents or peace lilies are good options.
- Check Hospital Policy: Always check the hospital’s policy before sending flowers. Some units, like intensive care or burns, may not allow flowers for health and safety reasons.
- Personalise Your Choice: If you know the patient’s favourite flowers or colours, personalizing the bouquet to their preferences can make your gift even more thoughtful.
- Avoid Fruits and Nuts in Arrangements: Some flower arrangements come with fruits or nuts. These should be avoided as they may not be suitable for hospital environments due to dietary restrictions and allergies.
How to Arrange Flower Delivery to a Hospital
Step-by-Step Guide
- Verify the hospital’s policy on flower deliveries to arrange a delivery.
- Choose a local florist familiar with the hospital’s guidelines. If possible, provide the florist with the patient’s full name and the hospital’s address, including the ward and room number.
Tips for Ensuring a Smooth Delivery
Ensure the flowers are delivered during the hospital’s allowed hours. Label the flowers with both the sender’s and the recipient’s details. Choose sturdy arrangements that can withstand transportation and varying room temperatures.
Ensuring a smooth delivery of flowers to a hospital requires some planning and consideration. Here are some tips to help make sure your thoughtful gesture goes off without a hitch:
- Check Hospital Policies: Before ordering, check the hospital’s policy on flower deliveries. Due to allergy and infection control policies, some hospitals do not allow flowers in certain areas, such as intensive care units.
- Select Appropriate Flowers: Choose flowers less likely to cause allergic reactions. Avoid strongly scented flowers like lilies or jasmine that might be overwhelming in a hospital setting.
- Container Considerations: Opt for a sturdy, non-breakable vase or container. Hospitals might not allow glass vases due to the risk of breakage.
- Include a Card: Always include a card with your name and contact information. This makes it easier for hospital staff to deliver the flowers to the right person.
- Delivery Instructions: When ordering flowers, give clear instructions on the delivery, including the recipient’s full name, hospital name, and room number if known.
- Timing of Delivery: Consider the timing of your delivery. It’s usually best to wait until the patient is settled in their room. Avoid late evening or weekend deliveries when fewer staff might be available to accept the delivery.
- Size of the Arrangement: Choose a modestly sized arrangement. Hospital rooms typically have limited space, and large arrangements might be cumbersome.
- Long-lasting Varieties: Select flowers that have a longer lifespan so they remain fresh and vibrant as long as possible.
- Special Considerations: For patients in shared rooms, consider a small, cheerful arrangement that doesn’t affect the other patient’s space.
- Alternative Delivery Options: If the hospital doesn’t accept flower deliveries, consider delivering them to a patient’s family member who can bring them in during a visit.
- Direct Contact with Florist: Communicate directly with the florist to ensure they understand hospital deliveries’ specific needs and restrictions.
- Follow-up: After the delivery, a quick follow-up with the hospital or the recipient can ensure that the flowers were delivered to the right person and in good condition.
Alternatives to Flower Delivery in Hospitals
There are several thoughtful and creative alternatives to flower delivery for gifts for someone in a hospital. Here are some ideas:
- Digital Entertainment Subscriptions: Gifting a subscription to digital entertainment platforms like Netflix, Audible, or Spotify. These can provide entertainment and distraction during long hospital stays.
- Books and Magazines: Depending on the patient’s interests, a selection of books, e-books, or magazines can be a great way to pass the time and stay entertained.
- Comfort Items: Soft blankets, quality pillows, or plush robes can make a hospital stay more comfortable.
- Puzzle Books and Games: Crossword puzzles, Sudoku, or portable board games can be a good way to keep the mind active and engaged.
- Art Supplies: For someone who enjoys creativity, sketchbooks, adult colouring books, and art supplies like coloured pencils or watercolours can be soothing and enjoyable.
- Healthy Snack Baskets: A basket filled with various healthy snacks like nuts, fruits, and granola bars can be thoughtful and practical.
- Personalised Care Packages: Create a care package with lip balm, lotion, a sleep mask, earplugs, and a personal note.
- Online Classes or Workshops: Gifting an online course or workshop in something they’re interested in, like cooking, photography, or writing.
- Plant Kits: Small, easy-to-care-for plants or bonsai trees can brighten up a hospital room without the potential issues of cut flowers.
- Audiobooks or Podcast Subscriptions: Audiobooks or podcasts are a great alternative for patients with difficulty reading.
Remember, it’s always a good idea to check with the hospital first to understand their policies on what items can be delivered or used in the patient’s room.
Conclusion
By choosing the right type of flowers and considering the hospital’s policies, you can ensure your thoughtful gesture is appreciated and appropriate. If you want to send a beautiful, uplifting floral arrangement to a loved one in the hospital, let Bourkes Florist handle it with care and professionalism. Our hospital-friendly flowers and arrangements are designed to suit various preferences and needs, ensuring your gift is perfect. Choose your flower arrangement and let us take care of the rest, ensuring a smooth and delightful delivery to your loved ones. Shop now!
FAQs
Q: Can you send flowers to someone in intensive care?
Usually, flowers are not allowed in intensive care units due to strict hygiene and space regulations.
Q: Are there any specific flowers that are best for hospital environments?
Low-pollen, unscented flowers like roses, carnations, and tulips are typically suitable.
Q: What should I do if the hospital doesn’t allow flower deliveries?
Consider alternative gifts or non-material gestures of support.
Q: How can I find out a hospital’s policy on flower deliveries?
Contact the hospital directly or check their website for visitor guidelines.
Q: Are there any alternatives to sending equally thoughtful flowers?
Personalized gifts, books, or a heartfelt letter can be equally meaningful.
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