BLUE SPRINGS – Going to the hospital can be stressful, but COVID-19 can add to the problem, based on information from Missouri Assistive Technology, or MAT. “Consider what you will need to take with you if you go to the hospital and how you will communicate with doctors, nurses and other health care staff,” MAT advised. The organization offers a guide intended to help people get ready for a hospital visit. “You may be alone for a long time when you are in the hospital,” MAT information states. “Doctors and nurses in hospitals wear masks and gloves and may talk to you from behind a window or curtain, so it may be harder for you to understand them (particularly for those who use lip-reading).” MAT’s preparation ideas follow… FIRST: Put together an emergency bag with needed items. Label the bag and items. Leave space on the label to add a hospital room number. Include: • A Braille label or bump dot to show ownership; • Primary assistive technology devices, such as a magnifier,…