While visiting the sick earns much reward the proper etiquettes must also be observed. Visit the sick only for the pleasure of Allah to earn the rewards mentioned and to console the person. Do not lengthen the visit. It has been stressed that the visit should be short. If the sick person himself desires that the visitor should remain longer there is no harm in it.
Commence the visit by asking about the health of the person. Talk lighthearted things and cheer the person up. It is also narrated that one should mention to him that he will Insha Allah recover and have a long life. Do not speak of such things which will make him despondent or grieve him further. One should mention the incidents of the pious people regarding how they reacted during illness.
Mention to the person that illnesses cause the forgiveness of one's sins. Do not cry or express grief in the presence of the patient. It is preferable to place one's hand on the forehead of the sick person and make dua for him. Learn the prayers that Prophet Muhammad made for the sick and recite the same. There is a great blessing in these duas. Besides making dua for him one should also request dua for oneself from the sick person.
Encourage the patient to engage in prayer, Zikr, Durood, etc. (It should be noted that the sick person is never absolved of his prayer. If he cannot perform his prayer standing he should do so while sitting. If this also is not possible then he should do so in a reclining position. If it is not possible to perform Wudu Tayamum should be performed. The relevant Masail should be learnt from the Ulama or from authentic literature). If the person is in hospital abide by the times and rules of the hospital. If the doctors have recommended that the patient should not be spoken to do not insist on speaking to him. If the patient is being visited at home ensure that the visit is at an appropriate time.
