[hansthehorse]

As someone who has spent much more than my fair share of time in ICU and on "the floor" I can honestly say that being in the hospital is similar to being in prison in one respect. Having someone on the outside working for you is critical. Medical staff will almost immediately try to establish a power dynamic over you to keep you cooperative and docile. Having people from outside who are polite but inquisitive and questioning is key. I've also noticed that people who have frequent and varied family visitors get more attentive care than those who never have visitors such as the elderly whose family may all be gone and friends can't really travel.