Understand that with being in the hospital feelings of fear and confusion are normal. Privacy laws and regulations that reward high speed can cause the hospital stay to be traumatic for the whole family. Emotions can run loud, and their is a constant need to remind yourself to stick to the facts of the situation.
For admission if available have copies of the seniors proof of insurance, living will, durable power of attorney, and durable power of attorney for health care. Hospital staff will attach copies to the elders medical chart.
Ask the medical staff:
1. Is my family member in an urgent, dangerous condition requiring immediate care?
2. What is the diagnosis, and how to you explain the medical problem?
3. What are the symptoms and short term effects related to the need for hospitalization?
4. What are the long term consequences to delaying treatment?
5. Will my family member be staying over night in this hospital?
6. What new medications are being adminsitered and prescribed?
Home Care Path www.homecarepath.com encourages family and friends to spend time with the senior during the hospitalization. Family support brings physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual sustenance to help insure a healthful discharge back to the home setting.
When the senior is being sent home from the hospital ask the medical staff if assistance in the home will be needed. Ask what type of help, and for how long. Ask where the help will come from. Try to understand the elders disease process and determine a recovery time.
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