Leaving the hospital is usually a relief. You are finally going home, the treatment is over for now, and you want to get out of there.
But discharge itself can become a little confusing. There are medicines, instructions, follow-up appointments, and, sometimes, the bigger question of how the patient is actually going to get home.
This a especially true for seniors, people recovering from surgery, those using a wheelchair, or anyone not strong enough to travel as they normally would.
So before walking out of the hospital, there are a few things worth checking.
1. Do you know what you have to do at home?
The doctor may give you a discharge sheet, but don’t just take it and leave. Ask questions if something is not clear. How much should the patient rest? Can they walk normally? Are there things they should avoid?
It is better to ask once at the hospital than try to figure it out later at home.
2. Check the medicines properly
Discharge can be a busy time and medicine instructions can easily get mixed up.
Check what needs to be taken, how much, when to take it, and for how long. If there are several medicines, having the instructions written down can make things much easier for the family.
3. Know what to watch for
Being discharged does not mean the patient can return to a normal life as before. Gently pitching into the old routine is very important.
Ask the medical team about symptoms you should not ignore. Also keep the hospital or doctor’s contact details nearby, especially during the first few days at home.
4. Do not forget the next appointment
A follow-up appointment may already be scheduled before the patient leaves.
Note down the date and time. Also consider how the patient will get there. This is particularly important if driving is not possible after surgery or treatment.
5. Arrange the ride before discharge day
This is where families mostly make a last-minute decision. And a safe transportation is not given due importance.
A normal cab is not the right choice for someone who uses a wheelchair or has undergone a serious procedure. Neither do ambulances. Hiring a non-emergency medical transportation service, like Safe and Secured Medical Transportation, can help you get home after a hospital visit with ease.
