Hospital protocol and same sex couples. [View all]
I got lucky in a way.
My partner was admitted via the ER with what was eventually diagnosed as cryptoccocal meningitis. He was very resistant and struggled with the med staff. They and I realized he didn't get what was happening. His struggle was general not specific.
The hospital staff actually asked for my assistance. They got it. My job was to be a familiar voice, coaxing him along the initial treatment, reassuring and steady, as best I could. I was there in the ER and ICU units.
He was admitted to a private room. Probably an isolation unit but some of the specifics I've forgotten. It had two beds. I got one.
We lived there together for a month. I had to come and go and take care of things, but we shared three meals a day. And I came back to the room at the end of the day. It was my room as well. The hospital never questioned any of it.
Nor did the floor staff, from MD's to RN's, etc.
One night, a nurse stopped in on her rounds. I was up, sitting on the side of my bed. She said, "Pinto, why don't you lie down with your partner? He and you will both get some sleep."
I've never forgotten that.
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