Hospital Flower Delivery: What You Need to Know
Sending flowers to someone in the hospital? Learn the rules, restrictions, and best practices to ensure your thoughtful gift arrives safely and brightens their day.
Hospital Flower Policies
Most hospitals accept flower deliveries during regular visiting hours, but policies vary by facility and unit. ICU and critical care units often prohibit flowers due to infection concerns. Oncology and immunocompromised patient units may also restrict flowers. Maternity wards typically welcome flowers, though some request no strongly scented varieties. Always check with the specific hospital before ordering.
Best Flowers for Hospital Delivery
Choose cheerful, low-maintenance arrangements. Avoid heavily fragrant flowers like lilies or hyacinths, as scents can be overwhelming in hospital rooms. Plants and succulents are excellent alternatives that last longer than cut flowers. Balloon bouquets with a small floral accent work well when flowers are restricted. Bright, colorful arrangements help brighten sterile hospital environments.
Timing Your Delivery
Schedule delivery during regular visiting hours, typically 9 AM to 8 PM. Morning deliveries are often best, giving patients something to enjoy all day. Avoid meal times when staff are busiest. Confirm the patient will still be admitted on your delivery date, as hospital stays can change unexpectedly. Consider calling the nurses' station the morning of delivery to confirm.
Information to Include
Provide complete information for successful delivery: patient's full legal name (as registered with the hospital), room number if known, the hospital's full name and address, and your contact information. If you don't know the room number, the hospital's main entrance can usually direct deliveries to the correct unit.
Alternatives When Flowers Are Restricted
If flowers aren't allowed, consider these alternatives: potted plants (often permitted where cut flowers aren't), balloon arrangements, gift baskets with snacks or magazines, cozy items like blankets or slippers, or a card with a promise to deliver flowers once they're home. A small stuffed animal or comforting item can also brighten their stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I send flowers to the emergency room?
ER flower deliveries are typically not accepted because patients move frequently. Wait until the patient is in a regular room, or deliver to their home after discharge.
Will the hospital call me if delivery fails?
Hospitals rarely notify senders of failed deliveries. Work with a local florist who will attempt redelivery or contact you if there are issues.
How do I find out a patient's room number?
Call the hospital's main line and ask for the patient information desk. They can confirm the patient is admitted and may provide the room number if the patient has not requested privacy.
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