Yes! It’s very common for people to end up in hospitals throughout their lives. The focus should always be on getting better, but sometimes legal documents have time-sensitive material that can’t wait. People in hospitals need a notary for a several reasons.
Signing Legal Documents: If a person in the hospital needs to sign legal documents, such as a power of attorney or a will, a notary may be required to witness the signing and certify the authenticity of the signature. This is to ensure that the document is legally binding and enforceable.
Medical Consent: In some cases, a notary may be needed to witness the signing of a medical consent form. This is particularly important if the person signing the form is unable to do so themselves, and another person is signing on their behalf.
Witnessing Sworn Statements: A notary may also be needed to witness the signing of a sworn statement or affidavit. This is a written statement made under oath, and the notary is required to certify that the person signing the statement did so voluntarily and under oath.
Of course, real estate documents and other notarizations can happen, but usually those aren’t directly connected with a medical event which brings someone to a hospital. Overall, I’m usually needed at hospitals to ensure that legal documents are properly executed, medical consent is given correctly, and sworn statements are properly witnessed.