How to set up a 10gal. hospital tank?

I only use my Q tanks when i need them,I dont' keep them running all the time.

I use a 10 or 20g, heater and a AC filter.I leave mine barebottom as it makes it esier to clean and to check for problems(white poop etc.). I set my tank up the day befor eand fill with water(conditioned ofcourse) and then leave it to make sure the temp is right. I add used filter media or gravel(put into a stocking and into the filter) from a cycled tank. This and doing more frequent water changes,I do daily on sick tanks and 2-3 days on Q tanks, helps keep the water levels down. It a bit like a instant cycle(if you add enough media or gravel). Some people even keep another filter running on their tank and transfer it over when needed.

I'd add a lot of plastic plants to the tank - anything that reduces their stress and makes them feel comfortable helps them get better faster

You can keep the cycle going by getting a regular little filter and keeping it seeded with ammonia to keep it going. This is really not much of a hassle as you can just do it when you feed your other fish. This way, its always cycled. The last thing a sick fish wants is to be sitting in ammonia/nitrite.

I forgot that i also add clay pots and plastic plants to help them hide.