Being Considerate to Muslim Patients in the Hospital

Assalamu alaikum, everyone. I’m reaching out because I want to learn how to be more respectful to Muslim patients. I’m a Catholic guy living in a rural area in the US, so I don’t get to interact with Muslims much. Our cultures and beliefs are pretty different, and I wanna make sure I don’t step out of line, especially in a hospital where people are already having a hard time. I’ve had a couple Muslim patients before, but they didn’t seem to follow the faith closely-or maybe they did, but being sick changes things? I’m not sure about the rules when someone is ill. Once, I sat with a confused Muslim patient and played the Quran for him, and it really calmed him down and helped him sleep. That was a nice moment. Recently, I had a Muslim man as a patient, and his wife was with him. I knocked and opened the door, and when she saw me, she quickly put on her hijab. I turned away right away to give her privacy. Was that the right move? Or should I have pretended like nothing happened so it wouldn’t be awkward? Also, I’m wondering: do Muslim women only cover around men who aren’t family, or do they cover around other women too? I wasn’t sure what to tell the nurse taking over my shift, so I just said to knock and give her time to cover if needed. Another thing: when I brought the husband a snack or drink, he said something like “thank you Allah,” and I automatically replied “you’re welcome” or “of course.” What’s a better way to respond in that situation? If I’m assigned to care for a Muslim woman, should I ask to switch with someone else? I don’t want to make her uncomfortable. And what about prayer? Should we try not to disturb them while they’re praying? What times do Muslims usually pray? Lastly, are there any things I should know or advocate for when a Muslim patient is in the hospital? Maybe there are items I could bring them from around the hospital to make things easier. Jazakum Allahu khair for any advice.