It’s natural to feel a bit anxious about returning to the community after a stay in the hospital. Planning is key. Hospitals call it “discharge planning.” A good plan will help ensure that you don’t have to return to the hospital and can recover quickly.
A hospital Discharge Planning Team will work with you and your family to develop the plan and connect you with the services you need.
Here are some questions to ask the Discharge Planning Team:
"Should I consider a convalescent home or rehabilitation facility?"
"What signs should I watch out for? What should I do if I have concerns about my health?"
"Will I get home care? Will a nurse or therapist visit me at home? Who pays for this service?"
"What other help is available to me at home?"
"What follow-up medical appointments are required? Who will set them up?"
"What medications do I need now? When do I take them? What side effects should I expect?"
"How active can I be? What should I not do?"
"Are there any changes I should make to my diet?"
Be sure to write down what the discharge planner tells you, so you have something to refer to at home.
The Going Home From the Hospital Guide is a resource guide to help patients and their caregivers prepare for transition from hospital to home.
After You Leave the Hospital
Community and in-home supports are available depending on your needs. Remember you can always contact a Community Navigator for extra help finding supports.
