Remember these pointers when visiting someone in the hospital

Dear Readers: At some point in life, we will all have to visit someone in the hospital, whether it be for the birth of a new baby, a routine procedure, etc. Here are some very helpful hints to remember when visiting:

Check the visiting hours so you do not arrive at the wrong time! Gifts and flowers are always a nice touch. See if a patient is allowed to have them. They are not permitted in some sections of hospitals.

Do not smoke before visiting. The odor may affect some patients.

DO NOT visit if you have a cold or other contagious disease! Please, I know you mean well, but for heaven’s sake, you are going into a hospital with sick people!

Avoid bringing food. If asked by the patient, check with the nurse first.

If a doctor or nurse comes into the room, step out into the hall so there is some privacy.

Hope these hints help make visiting a good experience for you and

the patient.—Heloise SEND A GREAT HINT TO: Heloise P.O. Box 795000 San Antonio, TX 78279-5000 Fax: 1-210-HELOISE Email: Heloise@Heloise.com

TRAVEL HINT Dear Heloise: As a business traveler, I am in hotels all the time. The first thing I do is clear off the tables and desk of all papers from the hotel and store them in a drawer. This way, when looking around the room as I come and go, I can see if I am leaving behind any of my important papers

and items.—Jerry C., via email

BE MINDFUL Dear Heloise: I was planning my son’s birthday party and talking to a friend about having a pinata. She said how at a previous party they attended, her daughter had been very confused by the pinata. She was taught not to hit, and then at the party she was told to hit a pinata that looked like a character from one of her favorite shows. It really made me think.

As parents, we need to be aware of the inconsistencies we present our children with.

Hope this helps other parents.—T.S. in San Antonio NOODLES FOR BLIND DOGS Dear Heloise: You recently ran a column about assisting dogs who are newly blind. This reminded me of my dog, Ruben, a big, energetic boy who loves running in the yard. I have three large oak trees and was unsure how to keep him safe.

I bought a bunch of colorful pool noodles that are used for swimming. I attached them vertically to the trees. If he did bump into a tree, it wouldn’t be a serious injury. I am happy to say that the “noodles” lasted through rain and sleet.—M.K., via email