You or your loved one are ready for discharge home.
You may not actually be ready but the case manager tells you that your time is up and a discharge order has been placed. Unfortunately, insurances are covering less days in the hospital and post acute care. Hopefully, if you are in a rehab center, you will be given at least a few days notice. Now lets go over the discharge game plan.
Prior to discharge questions that need to be answered:
Where will you be discharged to, yours or a loved one?
Do you have a key to enter ( you'd be surprised). Is your home able to accommodate any mobility or safety needs, such as removing obstacles or setting up handrails if necessary.
Discharge Day
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Discuss your discharge plan with your healthcare team, including your doctor and nurse. Make sure you understand the plan and any necessary follow-up care.
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Review your medications with your healthcare team. Ensure that you know what medications you need to take, the dosage, and the daily hour-by-hour schedule. Ask for written instructions. Repeat back to them what they have said to ensure you have full understanding.
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Obtain any new prescriptions and confirm that you have a supply of medications to last until your next follow-up appointment.
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Confirm your preferred pharmacy with your medical team to ensure the medications will be available for pick up or mailed to your home.
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Create a medication schedule or set reminders on your phone to help you remember when to take your medications.
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Request copies of your medical records, test results, and any imaging studies (e.g., X-rays, MRI, CT scans) for your personal records and future reference.
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Schedule any necessary follow-up appointments with your primary care physician or specialists before leaving the hospital.
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If you'll receive home health care services or need durable medical equipment at home, make arrangements for delivery and setup.
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Ensure you have all your personal belongings, including clothing, shoes, toiletries, and any valuable items.
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