It’s a relief when a loved one is released from the hospital. Yet the return home can pose its own set of challenges for caregivers. Between juggling medical instructions, emotional support, and taking care of the patient’s well-being, the change can feel overwhelming.
In this article, we’ll guide you through actionable steps and provide resources to help you prepare to make the transition smoother.
Note: While this guide focuses on adult care, children transitioning from hospital to home require their own preparation needs. To learn more about this check out our article on Transitioning Pediatric Patients from Hospital to Home for valuable tips and resources.
Preparing the Home Environment
A safe and well-prepared home environment is key to a successful recovery.
Declutter and Organize
Clear walkways of tripping hazards like rugs, cords, or excess furniture. Consider rearranging the furniture to create more open spaces for easier movement.
Install Mobility Aids
Depending on your loved one’s mobility needs, it might be a good idea to install grab bars in the bathroom, a ramp for wheelchair access, or bed rails for nighttime safety.
Stock Up on Supplies
Ensure all necessary medical supplies, medications, and daily essentials are readily available. Items like a first-aid kit, disposable gloves, and personal hygiene products are often overlooked but essential.
Set Up a Recovery Area
Designate a comfortable and accessible area for the patient, including necessary medical equipment and amenities like a bedside table or water station.
Understanding the Discharge Plan
Hospitals provide detailed discharge plans, but it can feel scary to implement them. Taking these steps can help ensure you’re fully up to speed with your patient’s condition.
Review Instructions Thoroughly
Pay close attention to medication schedules, dietary restrictions, and follow-up appointments.
Clarify with Healthcare Professionals
Don’t hesitate to ask the hospital staff questions about medication side effects, wound care, or signs of complications.
Create a Medication Schedule
Use tools like pill organizers or apps to ensure medications are administered on time and as prescribed.
Coordinate Follow-Up Care
Schedule visits with primary care physicians or specialists as recommended in the discharge plan.
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Coordinating Care Services
Caring for a recovering patient can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Professional care services can make a significant difference.
Partner with Home Healthcare Providers
Home healthcare agencies like Americare that specialize in skilled nursing and therapy services, can help bridge the gap between hospital care and home recovery. It’s important to know what to look for when choosing a homecare agency, so make sure you’ve done research before making a decision.
Access Skilled Nursing
Whether your loved one needs wound care, IV therapy, or ongoing monitoring, trained nurses can provide professional and compassionate support.
Utilize Therapy Services
Physical, occupational, and speech therapy can play a critical role in regaining independence and improving quality of life. Find out what services are available to your patient or loved one and any benefits they have.
Plan for Respite Care
If you need a break, consider respite services like home health aides and skilled nursing, to ensure continuous care while you recharge.
Emotional and Mental Support
The emotional toll of transitioning home affects both patients and caregivers. Recognizing and addressing these needs is vital.
Acknowledge feelings
It’s normal for patients to feel anxious or frustrated during recovery. Similarly, caregivers may experience stress or burnout.
Encourage Open Communication
Create an environment where your loved one feels safe sharing their concerns.
Tap into Resources
Look for local or online support groups for caregivers and patients. Americare’s team can guide you toward additional emotional and mental health resources.
Practice Self Care
As a caregiver, prioritizing your well-being is crucial. Simple steps like regular exercise, nutritious meals, and short breaks can help you stay physically and mentally healthy.
Checklist for Caregivers
Here’s a practical checklist to ensure a smooth transition from hospital to home:
Before Discharge
- Write down any questions you have about the discharge instructions and discuss them with the hospital staff
- Consider the following: Can you give the patient the help they need? What tasks do you need help with? Do you need any education or training? Talk to the staff about getting the help you need before discharge.
- Write down the name and phone number of a person you can call if you have questions.
- Get prescriptions and any special diet instructions early, so you don’t have to make extra trips after discharge from the hospital
- Make sure you understand any billing or benefits related to your loved one or patient. Be sure you have their insurance provider’s details so you can reach out if necessary
- Coordinate follow-up care for your loved one, like therapies, home health aides, or skilling nursing services
- Reach out to community-based resources in your area.
Prepare the Home
- Prepare the space for any new medical or adaptive equipment
- Make a list of approved and disapproved activities from health professionals
- Stock up on supplies
- Declutter and organize your space
Remember, if at any point you need practical guidance from professionals, the Americare team can help you with every aspect of this transition, providing advice, guidance, and professional services that reduce the caregiver burden and promote patient recovery.
Americare Can Help
Transitioning a loved one from hospital to home can be a challenging process, but with the right preparation, support, and guidance, caregivers can create a safe and nurturing environment for their loved ones.
Americare is here to support you with professional home healthcare services tailored to meet the unique needs of patients and caregivers alike. To learn more about how we can help, contact us today and let us help you make the transition smoother.