Hospital Stay Information
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Preparing to Leave the Hospital
Planning for Discharge
These questions will help patients and families prepare for discharge from the hospital. Nurses and social workers are available to assist you.
- Provide information and make arrangements for discharge (transportation, support needed at home, etc.).
- What limitations exist in my home environment? (e.g., upstairs bedroom or bathroom)
- What family support will be available?
- What resources and support are available in my community? (e.g., delivered meals, parish nurse, home care services)
- What resources and services were used before hospitalization?
- How will I get home? Will I need taxi service?
- What coverage is provided by my insurance company?
- What is required for payment of hospitalization?
- Ask questions and become informed about your care before and during hospitalization.
- What changes should I expect in lifestyle as a result of my illness and hospitalization?
- What restrictions will I have and for how long?
- What does this hospitalization cost?
- When will I be discharged?
- Does my insurance cover all this?
- Be an active participant in the care being given, being as self-sufficient as possible.
- Ask about the self-medication program and/or request to bring medications from home.
- Ask your doctor, nurse and therapist about your care and how you are progressing.
- Chart your own progress daily (e.g., keep a personal journal.)