Erica's Elevator Etiquette

Lately riding in the elevator at work is torturous... and so here it is MY Elevator Etiquette.

1. When the elevator door opens, pay attention to the arrow that points up indicating going up in floors or the arrow down indicating going down in floors. This will help ease you into the correct elevator. DO NOT stare at the elevator hoping the people inside will tell you which direction it is going. DO NOT stand there when your elevator has arrived thinking you need an invitation to get into the elevator from those already on it, simply get on it, or take the stairs.

2. Refrain from speaking on your cell phone on the elevator. Those whom are on the elevator don't want to hear you repetitively shout, "I may lose you!" or "I can't hear you, I'm on the elevator!"

3. Smells, limit them. This can't always be done in a hospital, but do your best.

4. When waiting to get on the elevator, as the elevator doors open, move to the side. DO NOT hover the elevator doors. Those whom are in it need to get out of it before you can get in it, so standing there blocking the door like a defense-men in football does no one any good.

5. Do not assume that even though YOU think you are close someone in the elevator should hold the elevator for you while everyone waits for you to hall yourself to the elevator. If you seem to be in hurry, this may work to your advantage with a kind soul pressing the button open for you, but if you are casually strutting to the elevator do not roll your eyes when you see the doors close. Remember, it will be right back to get you. And also remember we are in a hospital. Some times things are more urgent than you.

6. Do not try to be kind and throw your arm, leg, hand, or any other body part in an elevator that is 2 inches open, just to try to catch it. The doors are stronger than you. Again, it will be back to get you, it's it's only job to go up and down, it'll be back.

7. Discuss with everyone getting on what floor they plan on getting off. If I am standing there with a wheelchair and you are standing there with a cart of food, and I am getting off on the 6th floor, and you are getting off on the 2nd floor, wouldn't it make more sense for me to get in first and go to the back of the elevator, rather you getting in first, so I have to get out in order for you to get out on the 2nd floor, don't argue with me about you being there first, let's just be strategic people.... (that was a mouthful!)

8. Under no circumstance will I get in the elevator with a dead body. No thanks, I will wait for the next one. Security, you do not need to invite me in. This is kinda like going thru a red light the day of the funeral at a hospital. It's a rite of passage.

Alright, done for now... but I may add to this!!!