How to Survive a Hospital Stay

HOW TO SURVIVE A HOSPITAL STAY

THINGS TO BRING WITH YOU, or not TO THE HOSPITAL

  1. POWER OF ATTORNEY  – Make sure the hospital has copies of the patient’s healthcare durable power of attorney that states who will make decisions if the patient can no longer do so for themselves.
  2. CONTACT INFORMATION – of family or involved loved ones
  3. MEDICATION LIST – Make sure the hospital has the patient’s current list of all the medications your loved one takes.
  4. MEDICAL HISTORY

If possible, bring a list of surgeries, doctors, previous tests run (and results) and diagnoses.

  1. REMOVE ALL VALUABLES – Do not leave valuables with your loved one at the hospital
  2. PERSONAL ITEMS – Things that are good to have are glasses, hearing aids and dentures, but be careful with them!  If you leave items such as glasses, a cane, a walker, or dentures, make sure they are labeled and also listed in the patient’s chart on the “personal belongings” sheet.

BEING AN ADVOCATE

1- PEOPLE TO MAKE FRIENDS WITH — Make friends with the discharge planner

– Get to know the nurses

  1. TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF – Make sure the caregivers / advocates are taking good care of themselves during the hospital stay.
  2. HIRE YOUR OWN ADVOCATE – An advocate such as a geriatric care manager knows how to navigate the medical system. They are invaluable. You can search for the closest Professional Geriatric Care Manager on www.AgingPro.com’s Eldercare Directory.
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