When we leave the hospital, we always assume that we are better and in much greater health than we were before our stay. Even our caregiver may assume that, especially if there is no doctor’s order before discharge. What we don’t know is that, it is not always the case as sometimes we still need to keep our “hospital routine” for a few days or even for a week until it’s time for a checkup. Overlooking this simple fact may even cost you a round-trip ticket to the hospital so it is really important to know what you should or should not do soon after your hospital stay!
For a senior who just had a “bed and breakfast” accommodation at your friendly neighborhood hospital, there are three things you must consider before packing your bags and leaving the hospital:  medications, next scheduled checkup, and request for further lab tests and exams. These things you can ask the nurse and of course, your attending physician. While you are at it, don’t forget to ask your do’s and don’ts especially if you are new to your condition (i.e if this is your first time having an attack for whatever reason) Make sure that you’re not allergic to any followup medication prescribed to you as well.
Followup care is as important as the care you just received from the hospital and as much as possible, you should do whatever is required until you reach your full health. Gathering crucial information can help you guarantee your way to health. If the senior in question can no longer perform these tasks, the caregiver should be able to secure information to help him or her cope with followup care.
The hospital staff is the best starting place for your information gathering since they are the frontliners in a combat like this. They know exactly what you should expect upon discharge hence they will be able to give you valuable advices on how to take care of your patient. Some hospitals may even provide you with educational pamphlets with basic guidelines on how to deal with your beloved senior’s condition. Arm yourself with these materials. Also, it is wise if you do some planning before leaving the hospital especially if the patient needs to be moved to a facility after the hospital stay.
It will also do you, as the caregiver, some good if you keep a phonebook of contact person and numbers to call in case you have a question regarding your patient’s hospital stay.