Understanding Hospital Discharge
A hospital in general for a non-healthcare workers is overwhelming to say the least. Therefore, understanding the process of hospital in-take through discharge can make a world of difference in the care and healing outcome.
So, let us start with the basics.
The staff you will encounter in the hospital.
- The Physician
- Nursing Staff (CNA, RN, LPN)
- Case Manager
- Social Worker/Discharge Planner
- Therapists (OT, PT, ST)
Yes, you will be meeting people left and right daily, some will be the same faces day after day, and some will be new each day. Write their names down, along with their title and contact information, maybe ask for a business card.
In addition to meeting staff, there are a few important questions to ask.
- What is the diagnosis and what can I expect?
- Is there a prognosis?
- What type of services will he/she be receiving while in the hospital?
Once you know a diagnosis and timeline, you should begin preparing for the discharge.
- Should he/she go to an Assisted Living, Rehab Facility, or Nursing Care?
- Will a nurse or therapist come to our home to work with the patient? If so, who pays for this service?
- How do I get advice about care, danger signs, a phone number for someone to talk to if I have further questions?
- Who should we follow-up with for medical appointments?
- What kind of care is needed?
- Home Health medical care? (medication, pain management, special equipment (catheter, feeding tube, Hoyer lift, etc.)
- Home Health non-medical care? (bathing, dressing, personal hygiene, grooming, toileting, transferring, mobility, transportation, household chores, financial assistance
- What is their eating situation (are there diet restrictions, i.e. soft foods, pureed foods, sugar-free, gluten-free, etc.)?
- What medications will he/she be discharged with in hand? What prescriptions will need to be filled?
- Do they need a prescription for any specific medical equipment or supplies or have they already been ordered?
- Should we purchase any assistive equipment/supplies to help with daily tasks? (i.e. special eating utensils, visual aids, adaptive clothing, etc.)
- Do we need to make arrangements for therapy outside of the home?
Above all, understanding the hospital discharge process, being prepared, and pro-active is key.
By sitting down and writing the answers the above questions will begin to alleviate the overwhelm and stress you feel. Not knowing to ask these can make a significant difference in how somebody thrives outside of the hospital.
Nevertheless, call or meet with those that are not hospital staff:
- Medicare/Medicaid agent or Insurance company to see what is covered after hospital stay
- Primary Care Physician (PCP) to make sure they are aware of current hospital stay
- Elder Law Attorney
- Financial Advisor
- Home Health Companies, if it is suggested by discharge planner
- Rehab facilities or Assisted Living Communities
In truth, a hospital discharge should not feel rushed or pushed!
Be sure that you or the patient feel knowledgeable and ready to leave the hospital. An untimely discharge can be a hazard, so make sure everyone is on the same page.
Finally, if you would like more details and assistance, purchase The Hospital Discharge Handbook.
