Ethan Rhodes
There are many reasons why someone might need to go to the hospital, from emergency situations to scheduled admissions for surgery, medication, or other treatments. When heading to the hospital, it is important to assess the situation and determine whether the patient's condition warrants transportation by emergency services or not. If in doubt, it is always safest to call emergency medical services (EMS) by dialing 9-1-1 in the U.S. However, there may be situations where it is quicker to transport the patient to the hospital yourself, especially if their condition is not life-threatening. Before arriving at the hospital, it is advisable to have the necessary documents, such as a list of emergency contacts, chronic conditions, medications, and doses, as well as an advance directive or living will. During the hospital stay, patients will interact with various medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and specialists, depending on their specific needs.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Planning | Packing printed copies of living will, alerting healthcare proxy, arranging for a friend to be present for discharge, checking paperwork, and filling out forms in advance |
| Transportation | Driving yourself, getting a ride from a friend, asking religious organizations or senior centers, or hiring a health aide |
| Communication | Calling emergency services (EMS), alerting hospital and EMS of route, and providing clear instructions |
| Paperwork | Social security card, photo ID, insurance card, medical records, and advance directive |
| Navigation | Asking for the nearest parking, looking for maps and landmarks, and obtaining a printed layout of the building |
| Interaction | Meeting doctors, nurses, other staff, medical students, residents, and medical specialists |
| Facilities | Bed, buttons to adjust bed, curtain for privacy, lights, nurse call button, bathroom, TV, and telephone |
| Personal Items | Pictures of family, stuffed animals, books, toys, favorite pillow, and blanket |
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What You'll Learn
Planning your trip to the hospital
Transportation and Arrival:
Firstly, consider your mode of transportation. If you are facing a medical emergency, calling an ambulance by dialling emergency services is often the safest option. However, in certain situations, you may decide to transport yourself or a patient to the hospital, especially if it is not life-threatening and you believe it will be quicker. In such cases, inform the hospital and emergency services that you are en route, providing details of the nature of the injury and your route.
When scheduling your trip, don't forget to inquire about parking availability to ensure a smooth arrival. Once you arrive, look for maps and landmarks to navigate your way around the hospital, and don't hesitate to ask for assistance if needed.
Paperwork and Documentation:
Before your visit, check with hospital staff about any necessary paperwork and try to complete as much as possible in advance. Have essential documents ready, such as your social security card, photo ID, and insurance card. It is also helpful to bring a printed list of your emergency contacts, chronic conditions, medications, and their doses. If you have an advance directive, be sure to include it, along with any living will or health care proxy forms.
In-Hospital Experience:
If you are staying overnight, you may want to bring items from home, such as pictures, stuffed animals, books, or your favourite pillow and blanket to make your stay more comfortable. Most hospital rooms have adjustable beds, curtains for privacy, lights, and a call button to request assistance from a nurse.
During your stay, don't be afraid to ask questions and get involved with your healthcare team. Write down instructions and important details, as it can be challenging to remember everything, especially if you are on medication. Remember that the hospital staff are there to help, so take advantage of their expertise and don't hesitate to clarify any uncertainties.
Discharge and Recovery:
After your treatment, the discharge process may involve final tests or lab procedures. Your nurse will provide instructions on follow-up visits and medications. Ensure you understand the discharge instructions, and if not, ask for clarification.
Arrange for a friend or family member to pick you up and assist you once you return home. Follow any provided instructions regarding your diet, exercise, and activities. Continue to ask questions and keep any follow-up appointments to ensure a smooth recovery.
By following these planning tips, you can approach your trip to the hospital with increased confidence and a sense of control.
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What to do when you arrive
If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number. If you are tending to a patient, call emergency medical services (EMS) and inform them of your situation. If you decide to transport the patient to the hospital yourself, calmly explain your situation to the operator and ask them to connect you to the hospital so that they can prepare for your arrival.
When you arrive at the hospital, park as close to the entrance as possible. Hospitals have designated patient drop-off areas near the building entrance. You can then move your vehicle to an authorized parking spot. If you need assistance, you can quickly ask for help from hospital staff.
Check in at the reception desk and show them your admission notification and insurance card. There may be some paperwork to complete, and you may have to pay upfront for any out-of-pocket expenses. You will then be shown to your hospital room or a waiting area by a nurse, who will conduct an admission interview. They will ask you questions about your health and may conduct basic tests, such as taking your temperature and blood pressure, to ensure you are ready for surgery or treatment.
If you are having surgery, an anaesthetist may also ask you questions, and your surgeon may visit you. If you require an interpreter, all Victorian public hospitals provide free access to interpreting services. You can request an interpreter to be with you during your admission interview and at any stage.
If you are being discharged, your doctor will inform the hospital staff, who will begin the release process. There may be final tests to complete, and your nurse will give you instructions regarding follow-up visits and any medications you need. Ask any questions you have before you leave the hospital.
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What to expect from your healthcare team
Your Healthcare Team
Your healthcare team will consist of various professionals, each playing a specific role in your care. These may include doctors, nurses, technicians, nursing assistants, respiratory therapists, physical and occupational therapists, dietitians, and social workers. Get to know their roles and responsibilities, as this can make you feel more at ease and in control of your care.
Communication and Information
Effective communication with your healthcare team is crucial. Don't be afraid to ask questions and share your concerns, worries, or fears. They are there to listen and help you. Involving your family and friends for emotional support is also essential, and your healthcare team can help involve them in your care.
Your Rights as a Patient
It is important to understand your rights as a patient. You have the right to privacy, protection from abuse or neglect, and the confidentiality of your medical information. You also have the right to participate in healthcare decisions and access your medical records and clear descriptions of your medical condition and care plans.
Advance Directives and Living Wills
If you have an advance directive or living will, make sure to bring a copy to the hospital. These documents give you a voice in decisions about your medical care when you are unconscious or too ill to communicate. Your healthcare team can assist you in understanding and following through with your wishes.
Continuity of Care
Continuity of care and treatment is a priority for your healthcare team. They will share important details about your care with their colleagues to ensure smooth transitions and keep you informed about any upcoming changes to your healthcare team.
Infection Control
Infection control measures are crucial in hospitals. Follow your healthcare team's instructions on hand hygiene, and don't hesitate to ask if you have any questions or concerns about infection prevention practices.
Remember, your healthcare team is there to support you and provide the best possible care. Don't hesitate to speak up and advocate for yourself, and feel free to involve your support system to help you through your hospital stay.
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Preparing for discharge
Paperwork and Instructions
Complete any necessary paperwork in advance of your discharge. Ask the hospital staff about any forms that need to be filled out, and do this as early as possible to make the discharge process smoother. Ensure your medical records are up to date, and request copies of any new documents or test results to take home with you. Ask questions if there is anything you are unsure about, and write down instructions regarding follow-up visits, medications, and any other post-discharge care.
Arrange Transport
It is not advisable to drive yourself home after a hospital stay. Ask a friend or family member to collect you, or, if this is not possible, inquire about alternative options. Some suggestions include asking your doctor's office, religious organization, or senior center about ride opportunities, or hiring a health aide to drive you home.
At-Home Recovery
Follow any instructions provided by hospital staff regarding diet, exercise, and activities to avoid. Keep any follow-up appointments, and continue to ask questions if you are unsure about anything. Ensure you have any necessary medications, and consider putting up reminders of your hospital stay, such as pictures or posters, to boost your mood during recovery.
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At-home recovery
Planning for at-home recovery
Planning for at-home recovery before hospitalisation can help you focus on healing later on. Your health team and insurance provider can help you arrange for the support you need. If you live with a partner or family member, they may be able to provide caregiving. However, you should consider bringing in extra help to cover when your caregiver is busy or needs a break.
Discharge instructions
It is important to follow the discharge instructions given by the hospital. Keep in touch with your physician and take your medications as prescribed. Make an appointment to see your primary care physician (PCP) within 7 days of discharge. This appointment is often scheduled for you while you are still in the hospital, so it is important to keep it.
Benefits of at-home recovery
At-home care services
At-home care services can provide non-medical assistance with daily activities such as cooking, cleaning, dressing, bathing, grooming, and transportation to follow-up medical appointments. In-home professional caregivers can also provide social interaction and be the first to notice changes in the patient's condition, allowing the family to be informed and the doctor to be notified.
Telehealth
Telehealth video conferencing can enhance patient care by allowing healthcare workers to witness the patient's day-to-day life and provide more individualized attention. Tablets can also be used for telehealth appointments before hospitalisation and to communicate with a care manager after discharge.
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Frequently asked questions
It is important to bring documents that outline your emergency contacts, chronic conditions, medications, and their doses. Additionally, bring a copy of your advance directive, which may include a living will and a health care proxy form.
If you decide to transport a patient to the hospital yourself, call emergency medical services (EMS) and inform them of the situation. Provide details such as the nature of the injury and the route you will be taking. This will allow EMS and hospital staff to prepare and provide guidance if needed.
During your hospital stay, you will interact with doctors, nurses, and other hospital staff. You may have a private or shared room, which typically includes a bed, lights, a call button for nurses, and a bathroom. You may also have access to a TV and telephone. Remember to ask questions and stay involved with your healthcare team to ensure you understand your treatment plan.
