Every week I see people waiting at the hospital.  I have observed these common situations as people play what I will call the “waiting game”.

•  Unoccupied time feels longer than occupied time.
• Anxiety makes waits seem longer.
• Uncertain waits seem longer than known finite waits.
• Solo waits seem longer than group waits.

 If you are preparing to be a hospital patient I advise you to look at this list and think about ways you can deal with the dynamics that are necessary as we wait.

 Bringing a book to read or some other “portable hobby” will allow you to pass time rather than watching the clock as the minutes seem to take forever to move.

 If you have fears about the process those fears can become anxiety and make the waiting seem longer than it really takes.  To help yourself deal with this reality, ask as many questions as you need to about the specific health status of your patient.  Many times people worry about things that are not likely to happen in their situation.

 When dealing with hospital staff if you are asked to wait, it is a great idea to ask the staff member how long you should expect to wait.  Many times employees will volunteer this time frame information to help ease your tensions.

 I have observed that people who wait individually have a lot more anxiety than when several people are waiting together and can offer each other encouragement and make the time pass more quickly.  By all means bring a friend or family member who has a calming effect on you as part of your support system.

 I hope these tips will help you have a better experience next time you are waiting in a hospital.