How to Have Flowers Delivered to a Hospital Patient

If you have a relative or friend who is in hospital and you don't live close enough to visit, then you'll want to let them know that you are thinking of them. Sending a flower arrangement is an easy way to do this.

However, sending flowers into hospitals isn't as straightforward as having flowers delivered to homes. What do you need to know before you order an arrangement?

Does the Hospital Accept Flower Deliveries?

Hospitals are busy places that are focused on health care. While some hospitals will accept flower deliveries, some don't. In some cases, hospitals will accept flowers but may have rules on where the flowers are delivered in the building.

For example, your flower deliverer may not be allowed to hand the flowers to your friend or relative in person. They may have to leave deliveries with ward staff or drop them off at a central point such as a mail room or reception area.

What Kind of Ward Is the Person In?

Some hospitals don't want any flowers or plants in certain wards. This is generally the case in wards that are dealing with serious conditions. So, hospitals may ban flowers and plants from intensive care units or cancer wards.

This ban protects the safety of all patients. If someone on the ward is seriously ill and they have a flower or plant allergy, then an allergic reaction could tip them over the edge.

Does the Hospital Have General Allergy Rules?

Some hospitals won't accept some types of flower arrangements or gifts. They ask people not to bring in things that are common allergy triggers.

For example, hospitals might not accept arrangements or plants that people may be allergic to. This usually includes things like lilies and geraniums. You may also find that some hospitals won't accept arrangements that include other gifts like balloons. People with latex allergies can be affected by some balloons.

If you aren't sure how to get a flower arrangement sent to your relative or friend, then you can call the hospital they are in and ask if you can do this. Alternatively, call a flower arrangement delivery service in the area.

The florist will have plenty of experience of delivering to local hospitals and will have a good handle on the rules for the hospital in question. They can also give you advice on suitable arrangements and add-on gifts and tell you what not to send.

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