What Are the Rules for Attendant Passes During Overnight Patient Stays in Delhi Private Hospitals?

Attendant Pass Rules

Most Delhi private hospitals issue attendant passes at the admission desk. The standard policy: 1-2 passes per patient (one primary, one secondary). The primary pass holder can stay overnight in the patient's room. The secondary pass holder has visiting-hour access. Passes are non-transferable — only the named person on the pass can use it. Lost passes must be reported to the nursing station immediately for reissue. Some hospitals charge a refundable deposit for the pass.

Overnight Stay Facilities

Private rooms typically include a companion cot or recliner chair for the overnight attendant. Semi-private rooms may have a folding chair. General wards usually do not have attendant sleeping facilities — the attendant must use the common waiting area. All hospitals provide blankets and pillows for attendants on request. Bathrooms for attendants are separate from patient bathrooms. A companion who stays overnight ensures the patient has someone available for bathroom assistance, medication reminders, and emergency response throughout the night.

When Family Cannot Stay Overnight

For NRI families or families where no one can stay overnight, a professional hospital companion can be arranged for overnight bedside support. The companion: holds the attendant pass, remains in the patient's room overnight, assists with bathroom visits, alerts nursing staff if the patient needs medical attention, and sends morning updates to the family. During a standard 12-hour overnight shift (typically 8 PM to 8 AM), the companion assists with bathroom visits, reminds the patient about night medicines as directed by nursing staff (the companion reminds, never administers), and alerts the nursing station if the patient experiences pain, discomfort, or any medical concern. Overnight companion service is billed at the standard companion rate of ₹349/hour. This is particularly valuable for post-surgery patients who need monitoring but whose families are abroad or working.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many attendant passes are allowed per patient?

Most Delhi private hospitals issue 1-2 attendant passes per patient. The primary pass holder can stay overnight. Additional family members can visit during visiting hours (typically 12-2 PM and 5-7 PM) without a pass. Check with the specific hospital's admission desk for their exact policy.