Keeping well in hospital

During your stay in hospital, there are plenty of positive actions you can take to continue to optimise your wellbeing, and aid your recovery.

Keeping active:

Being active helps to protect you from something called 'deconditioning'.

Deconditioning can happen when patients don’t move regularly, and it has a negative effect on their bodies.  For example, inactivity means muscles weaken – sometimes surprisingly quickly - so individuals have a greater risk of falling over when they do stand up and move around. 

Sitting or lying still for too long can also cause pressure ulcers (sometimes known as bed sores), can increase confusion and disorientation, and can lead to people not eating or drinking enough.

On the other hand, keeping as mobile as possible will not only aid your recovery, but help you maintain your wellbeing and independence.

You will be encouraged as soon as possible to get up and dressed during the day. Being in comfortable day clothes will put you in the right frame of mind to be up and about more, supporting your general health.

Don’t forget to bring your glasses, hearing aids, dentures, sensible footwear and anything else you need to help you get about.

And remember to keep mentally active too. Reading, board games, word or number puzzles all all things which help to keep your brain stimulated.

Why does this matter? Not having your normal routine or activities means that not only is your body not moving as much, but your brain isn't working as hard either. (This can sometimes lead to an increased risk of longer term cognitive issues for some patients.) 

Nutrition and hydration:

Food has a very important role to play in your recovery. This is why most ward activities, apart from urgent care, pause during breakfast, lunch and dinner.

We encourage relatives, friends and carers to visit at mealtimes if a patient needs some help with eating or drinking, but our staff are always available to provide extra support.

Try to eat plenty of fruit and vegetables and enough protein when you are with us. This will help with wound healing and support your immune system.

If you have any special dietary requirements, please let us know.

It’s also extremely important to drink enough fluids. Dehydration can be the underlying cause of a range of complications during a hospital stay. These include falls and infections, and sometimes other serious conditions too.

Reach for the water jug regularly, and take advantage of the hot drinks offered by our friendly catering staff. Your family and friends can play an important part by reminding you to take regular sips during visits.