Table of Contents
While writing my book, and continuing clinical work, I have found that there is a large need for a resource for people whose loved one is in the hospital. Now they need to be discharged, but are unable to return back home at their prior level of function.
It seems to almost everyone that time to discharge from acute care comes rather quickly and abruptly. Also there is a lack of understanding on the caregivers part as to what comes next. This will be the first part in a short series looking at what you need to know when your loved one is being discharged from the hospital. I hope this is helpful!
While the medical team tirelessly works behind the scenes, it often feels like a whirlwind of decisions once discharge is imminent. Today, we'll navigate through potential discharge destinations. Your role as a caregiver is crucial in helping guide the transition to the next level of care. This post aims to make that journey smoother for both you and your loved one.
Discharge planning starts on the first day in the hospital with the gathering of information. Diagnosis, prognosis, age, medical history, prior level of function will all play a role in expected discharge scenarios. You will likely not know that the planning is going on until the course of care is determined and discharge plans are actively being worked on. This will be based on your loved one’s medical condition and recovery and expected continued progress.
The topic may have been discussed frequently by social workers, the medical team, and the therapy team. However, since you likely had limited involvement in the day-to-day, when the time comes, it can feel like it happens with haste.
The process is geared towards getting people home as safely as possible with adequate support. If you have been at the hospital often throughout this process, it will likely be assumed that you are available and able to assist your loved one at home. With some nursing and therapy support of course. But even with the help it is likely more family or additional paid caregivers will be required for some amount of time to help mom return to managing on her own day to day.
And that is if she is doing well enough and has enough support to go home safely.
Let’s take a look at possible destinations for discharge from the hospital.
If you are unable to provide the assistance required for your loved one, there is no other family to help, or she needs more care than can be provided at home, discharge to a rehab facility is likely the best option.
It is best to be in touch with the case manager at regular intervals to stay up to date with how your loved one is progressing.
Next week, well take a look at who to ask, when to ask and what to ask for the critical time of discharge planning.
That's all for today.
Take care, keep mom safe at home and have a great day!
Winn
I am a Doctor of Physical Therapy and have been working with the 70+ age group for over a decade. I will share my knowledge and experience to give you ideas to care for your aging parents. Read more >>