Did a search for "the long haul," as in, What do you do when a family member is in for the long haul in their healing? My dad has a long road ahead and today, three days into his awakened state, he's saying he needs to get out of bed and go home. Google came up with things like long flights (such as to Tokyo); or tips for long-distance truck drivers.
It breaks my heart to walk out of his room and leave him behind.
So, here are a few of my own, off the top of my head:
1) Be patient with the patient, and yourself. He (in this case) is struggling to take everything in. Even though you know more about the reality of the situation, you are taking in new realities as well.
2) He is slow to soak everything in, in part because of the post-drug fog; so don't hit him with all the information at once. Let him lead with questions and correct if necessary and when appropriate.
3) Get rest. Eat. Go about your normal routine as much as possible.
4) Pay attention to the visiting hours. They're in place not only for the staff but for the family. Get away as you can and should.
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