Maine Coast Memorial Hospital encourages visitors during your hospital stay as friends and relatives have a away of making your day a little brighter.

Everyone's cooperation is vital as each  patient and visitor plays a role in preventing the spread of infection.

Some guidelines to follow:

• Visitors should wash hands before and after visits.

• Visitors may be asked not to bring flowers or personal items which can harbor germs.

• Visitors should find out if the patient is on any special precautions. If a patient is on precautions, make sure recommended protective wear is used and rules are followed.

• Do no visit a patient if you are ill — avoid visiting if you know you have been exposed to an illness.

• Be understanding if a patient is on precautions to control the spread of infection even if this may seem extreme at times. Remember the precautions are designed for everyone's well being.