Bringing a loved one home from the hospital is a happy moment but it doesn’t come without a lot of responsibility. This is why, a little planning before they leave the hospital makes all the difference and can make the first few days at home much easier and safer.
Here we came up with some simple steps to help out #caregivercommunity get ready.
#1. Make Sure You Ask Questions Before You Leave
It is so important to take time to talk with the doctor or nurse to gather all the information you need to make the transition home a safe one. And don’t be afraid to ask questions, seriously you don’t know what you don’t ask. The more you know, the more confident you’ll feel at home, which will be key in your loved ones recovery.
Here are a few important questions to ask:
- What should we expect during recovery?
- Are there any warning signs we should watch for?
- What activities should they avoid?
- When can they return to normal daily routines?
- Who should we call if we have questions after we get home?
Let’s face it, things can get overwhelming and what you thought you heard may not be exactly what was said. So, make sure you write down the answers or ask if you can record the conversation on your phone, so you don’t forget these important details.
#2. Understand the Discharge Instructions
Before leaving the hospital, you’ll receive discharge instructions and typically a discharge nurse will review the details with you in person. These directions explain how to care for your loved one at home.
Make sure you understand the details and keep up with the paper copy of the discharge instructions to reference again later if you need to. Here are a few things that are generally important for caregivers to remember once they are home:
- How to care for any wounds or bandages.
- What foods your loved one should eat or avoid.
- How much activity is safe.
- When can your loved one shower or bathe.
- When to call the doctor or seek emergency care.
If anything is confusing, ask someone to explain it in a different way. And again, it’s always okay to ask questions until you understand what is expected of you.
#3. Review All Medications
Medications are an important part of recovery. Before going home, review each medicine with the doctor or the discharge nurse.
Here’s what you should know:
- The name of each medication.
- What it is used for.
- How much to take.
- When to take it.
- Possible side effects to watch for.
If your loved one was taking medicine before going to the hospital, ask if they should continue taking it or stop. This can help prevent mistakes.
#4. Schedule Follow-Up Appointments
Many patients need to see their doctor after leaving the hospital within a specified time frame. These visits help make sure healing is going as planned.
This is why before you leave the hospital you want to ask:
- When is the next appointment?
- Do you need to schedule it yourselves?
- Are there any specialists you all should see?
Write the appointment dates on a calendar or set reminders on your phone to avoid missing any.
#5. Plan for Transportation
It always a good idea to think about how your loved one will get home once you are notified that discharge plans are underway. In many cases, your loved one may not be able to drive right away if they are still able to drive. There are also times when specialized transportation is needed if your loved one is not able to safely ride in a personal vehicle.
So, these are a few things that should be arranged:
- A family member or friend to drive.
- A wheelchair if needed when leaving the hospital.
- Help getting safely into and out of the vehicle.
Also don’t forget, if any future medical appointments are already scheduled, plan transportation for those as well.
#6. Prepare Your Home for a Safe Return
A safe home can help prevent falls and make recovery easier.
Before your loved one arrives home:
- Remove rugs or clutter from walkways.
- Make sure rooms and hallways have good lighting.
- Keep frequently used items within easy reach.
- Set up a comfortable place to rest.
- If possible, keep everything they need on one floor to avoid stairs.
- Arrange for a ramp if a wheelchair will be needed at home and was not previously used prior to the hospitalization.
Small changes can make all the difference.
#7. Gather Supplies and Equipment
Some people need extra supplies after leaving the hospital. Ask the care team what your loved one will need before they come home.
Here are a few common items:
- A walker or cane.
- A wheelchair.
- A shower chair.
- Grab bars for the bathroom.
- Bandages or wound care supplies.
- A blood pressure monitor or thermometer.
- Pill organizer for medications.
Having these items ready before your loved one arrives can help them feel more comfortable and make caregiving easier. Check out our Caregiver Essentials on Pinterest for more ideas of what you may need and why.
A Little Planning Goes a Long Way
Preparing before your loved one leaves the hospital can help reduce stress for everyone. Ask questions, understand the care instructions, review medications, plan follow-up care, prepare your home, and gather any needed supplies.
With a little planning, you’ll be ready to welcome your loved one home and help them recover safely and comfortably.