Tessa Quinn
Deciding whether or not to admit your mother to the hospital can be a challenging and stressful experience. There are several factors to consider, including your mother's health, the availability of alternative care options, and potential financial implications. In some cases, hospitalisation may be necessary due to a medical emergency or a decline in your mother's physical or mental health. It is important to trust your instincts and seek help from medical professionals, such as your primary care doctor. Additionally, it is crucial to be aware of the potential challenges, such as medication management and the potential for rehabilitation or long-term care needs. Furthermore, there may be financial considerations, especially if your mother requires an extended hospital stay or subsequent rehabilitation. Understanding the requirements of Medicare or other insurance providers is essential to avoid unexpected costs.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Medical reasons | Stroke, heart attack, broken bone, pneumonia, UTI, dementia, weakness, dizziness |
| Medicare requirements | 3 consecutive inpatient days for coverage of rehabilitation care in a skilled nursing facility |
| Personal items | Prescriptions, dentures, hearing aids, clothing |
| Social and family considerations | Financial situation, availability of caregivers, relationship with staff |
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What You'll Learn
When to admit your mom to the hospital
Admitting a parent to the hospital can be a stressful experience. Here are some guidelines on when to admit your mother to the hospital:
Medical Emergencies
In the event of a major medical emergency, such as a stroke, heart attack, or broken bone, your mother will need to be taken to the Emergency Room and admitted as a hospital inpatient. This is a critical step to ensure she receives the necessary treatment and care.
Persistent or Concerning Symptoms
If your mother is exhibiting persistent or concerning symptoms that indicate a decline in health, it may be time to consider hospital admission. This could include symptoms such as dizziness, weakness, or cognitive issues like confusion or dementia. If you notice any unusual behaviours or a decline in her physical or mental capabilities, it's important to seek medical advice and consider hospitalisation for further observation and treatment.
Medication Management
If your mother is on multiple medications, it's crucial to monitor them closely. Hospital admission may be necessary if there are concerns about medication interactions or if she is experiencing side effects that impact her health and well-being.
Rehabilitation and Recovery
After a significant illness or injury, your mother may require rehabilitation to regain her strength and mobility. In such cases, hospital admission can provide access to physical therapy and other necessary treatments to support her recovery.
Social and Financial Factors
Consider your mother's social and financial situation. If she lives alone, has limited mobility, or lacks a strong support system, hospital admission may be beneficial to ensure her safety and well-being. Additionally, if there are financial constraints preventing adequate care at home, hospitalisation can provide temporary relief and access to social services that can help assess her eligibility for additional support.
Remember, trust your instincts, and don't hesitate to seek help from medical professionals and social workers. They can provide valuable guidance and support throughout this challenging process.
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How to get your mom admitted to the hospital
Getting a loved one admitted to the hospital can be a stressful experience. Here is a guide on how to get your mother admitted to the hospital:
When to Seek Hospital Admission
Firstly, it is important to determine whether your mother's condition warrants hospital admission. In the case of a medical emergency, such as a stroke, heart attack, or broken bone, your mother will typically be taken to the Emergency Room and then admitted as a hospital "inpatient". However, in less urgent situations, it may not be clear whether hospitalization is necessary. Trust your instincts, stay calm, and if you are concerned about your mother's health, do not hesitate to seek medical advice.
Choosing the Right Healthcare Provider
If your mother's condition is not an emergency, it is advisable to consult her primary care doctor first. They can refer her to a specialist or hospital if needed and may have admitting privileges, allowing them to admit patients directly. However, in urgent cases or when the doctor lacks admitting privileges, your mother will need to go through the Emergency Room (ER) for triage and admission by a hospitalist or specialist.
Understanding Insurance Coverage
It is important to understand your mother's insurance coverage, especially when it comes to rehabilitation care. For example, Medicare requires at least three consecutive inpatient days for coverage of rehabilitation care in a skilled nursing facility. Make sure to verify your mother's insurance coverage to understand what benefits she is entitled to and to avoid unexpected costs.
Advocating for Your Mother's Care
When your mother is admitted to the hospital, it is crucial to advocate for her care. Bring a list of her medications to the hospital and ask a doctor or nurse to review and reconcile them with her treatment plan. If your mother is on multiple medications, be especially vigilant about this process. Additionally, if your mother is experiencing mental health issues, you may need to provide a recommendation for admission and advocate for her treatment.
Planning for Discharge and Aftercare
Finally, start planning for your mother's discharge and aftercare as early as possible. Social workers and healthcare professionals can help explain the options for healthcare and financial support. Discuss your mother's condition with the healthcare team and determine what type of care she may need following her hospital stay, such as in-home care or rehabilitation.
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What to bring when your mom is admitted to the hospital
If your mom is admitted to the hospital, it is essential to bring items that will make her stay more comfortable. This includes comfortable clothing, such as a robe, pyjamas, a nursing bra, underwear, socks, and slippers. Don't forget to pack her personal care items, such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, shampoo, conditioner, soap, body wash, deodorant, face wash, and lip balm. If she wears glasses or contact lenses and a case, be sure to bring those along too. Some hospitals may have restrictions on certain items, so it's always good to check beforehand.
If your mom is on any medications, bring them in a big bag and ask a doctor or nurse to review them. It is important to ensure that her medication regimen in the hospital aligns with what she was taking at home. Remember to repeat this process each time she moves to a different area of the hospital.
Additionally, some items can help keep her entertained during her stay. You can bring books, magazines, or other reading materials. If she enjoys puzzles or games, those can also be a good way to pass the time. If your mom is a new mother, you can bring items to help her take care of her newborn, such as outfits, hats, socks, mittens, receiving and swaddle blankets, diapers, wipes, and feeding bottles.
It is also thoughtful to bring some snacks and drinks to ensure your mom stays energised. Hospital food may not always be appealing, so bringing her favourite meals or treats can be a nice surprise. However, be mindful of any dietary restrictions she may have and check with the hospital staff before bringing outside food.
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How to handle mistreatment by hospital staff
It is important to know when hospitalisation is necessary for your mother. In the case of a stroke, a massive heart attack, or a broken bone, hospitalisation is usually necessary. However, in less clear-cut situations, it may be more appropriate to first observe your mother as an outpatient before admitting her as an inpatient. This is partly because Medicare requires at least three consecutive inpatient days for coverage of rehabilitation care in a skilled nursing facility.
Now, here are some steps you can take if you or your mother experiences mistreatment by hospital staff:
- Identify the individual responsible for the mistreatment: Take note of their name, appearance, and role in the hospital. Confirm that they are indeed employed by the hospital, as staff may sometimes be outsourced. This information will be crucial for any legal proceedings.
- Document the mistreatment: If possible, gather evidence of the mistreatment, especially in cases of negligence, malpractice, physical or sexual assault. Evidence may include hospital records, consent forms, medical reports, witness testimonies, or any other relevant documentation.
- Report the incident to a higher authority: Do not let the hospital get away with mistreatment. Report the incident to the hospital administration, licensing board, or another external authority. Hold the hospital accountable and ensure they take appropriate action.
- Seek legal advice: If the mistreatment is severe or persists, consider consulting a medical malpractice attorney. They can guide you through the process of filing a lawsuit against the hospital or individual responsible.
- Prioritise your well-being: If you feel unsafe or uncomfortable continuing treatment at the same hospital, consider switching to another healthcare provider. Your health and safety should be a priority.
- Advocate for change: Mistreatment in hospitals can often be a systemic issue. By speaking up and taking action, you can help create a culture of accountability and improve the standard of care for other patients.
Remember, mistreatment in any form is unacceptable, and you have the right to safe and respectful treatment during your hospital stay.
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What to do when your mom is in the hospital
Having a parent in the hospital can be a stressful and emotional experience. Here are some tips on what to do when your mom is in the hospital:
Understand the reasons for hospitalization
It is important to understand why your mother has been admitted to the hospital and whether it is warranted. Hospitals may be motivated by financial incentives to discharge patients quickly, so it is crucial to be informed about your mother's condition and the reasons for her admission. Ask questions and seek clarification from medical staff to ensure you understand the reasons for hospitalization and the expected course of treatment.
Be proactive about medications
If your mother is on multiple medications, be proactive in managing her medication regimen. Bring her medications to the hospital and ask a doctor or nurse to review and reconcile them with the medications being administered in the hospital. This step is crucial to avoid potential errors or adverse drug interactions. Repeat this process whenever your mother moves to a different hospital unit or is discharged to ensure continuity of care.
Provide comfort and familiarity
Hospitals can be sterile and uncomfortable environments. Bring items from home, such as clothing, hygiene products, photos of family, and her favourite music or audiobooks, to make her room more familiar and comforting. These items can help your mother feel more connected to the outside world and provide a sense of peace and distraction during her recovery.
Take care of yourself
Caring for a hospitalized parent can be emotionally and physically draining. It is important to take time for yourself between hospital visits to decompress, exercise, and practice self-care. Surround yourself with loved ones and seek support from those who understand what you are going through. Eat regularly and stay hydrated, especially when spending extended periods at the hospital.
Plan for rehabilitation and discharge
If your mother requires rehabilitation or extended care, be proactive in discussing these arrangements with the medical team. Understand the financial implications and explore options for in-home care or social services support if needed. Start these conversations early to ensure a smooth transition and avoid unexpected costs or challenges.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, your mom should be admitted to the hospital for a UTI. With the right antibiotic, her UTI should clear up, and she should recover mentally.
If your mom is being mistreated by hospital staff, you should file a complaint with the patient support office. If the staff continues to escalate the situation and call the cops, you may be banned from the hospital and will need a court order to see your mom.
You should bring all of your mom's medications in a big bag and ask a doctor or nurse to review them. You should also bring her hearing aids and dentures if she relies on them. It is recommended to leave valuables at home or ask staff to record and lock them up.
Your mom needs to be admitted to the hospital for at least three days for Medicare to cover her stay in a skilled nursing facility. You will also need to ensure that she requires skilled nursing care and is not just in rehab or receiving physical therapy.
