| |
When you are admitted to the hospital, it can be a very stressful and confusing time. As the patient, it can be difficult to know what questions to ask, when to ask them, what information to record, and what follow-up information is needed.
Have someone act as your advocate or at least have someone who will keep track of the information that needs to be gathered. Oftentimes, the patient is not in the condition to ask questions or record answers, and may not have the energy to advocate for him or herself.
Some of the questions to be asked and answered include which doctors have treated you while you are in the hospital, what tests are needed before you can be released, and what tasks you must be able to do before you are judged ready to leave the hospital.
There are times when various tests have been performed, but the patient is not informed of the results and/or what the results mean. A follow-up system will help you to know to call the doctor's office or ask a nurse to get the test results.
Also, make a list of the tests that remain to be performed on you prior to your release from the hospital; what these tests are for; what the results will indicate; what additional treatment will be needed; and what the possible diagnosis will be.
Prior to your release from the hospital you probably have to be able to accomplish certain tasks. These can include getting out of bed by yourself; being able to walk to the bathroom; having a bowel movement; and/or being hydrated to a certain level.
When you are released it will be important to understand what restrictions you will have relating to food, drink, and physical activities. For example, will you be able to take a shower, drive, drink alcohol, eat normally? This information will help your caregivers take better care of you and help speed your recovery. It is also critical to confirm which medications you are to take once you return home. Medications may have been added or removed during your hospital stay.
Being in the hospital can be a time of great stress and it will, hopefully, be a time of great healing. Remember to have someone help you to ask questions and record the answers, so that you can understand the your treatment plan and your prognosis. You will record contact information for your doctors; detailed information about tests and their results; what you need to accomplish physically before you leave the hospital; and what restrictions you will have upon release.
SmallTown Duo, owned by Sibyl Day and Mary Benson, specializes in medical and legal books for consumers. They publish a popular book called "What Did the Doctor Say? A Guide for Leaving the Hospital." The book covers topics such as questions to ask about your diagnosis, medications, doctor visits, and avoiding common medical errors. If you or someone you know will soon be in the hospital, this book helps with every step of the way. For more information, visit their website at www.SmallTownDuo.com
 EasyPublish™ this article - publishers click here
More articles by Sibyl Day
- 5 Tips How To Increase My Metabolism For Weight Loss (Phil Hixon)
Have you ever had a friend (and I know you have) who eats like crap, exercises very little and STILL stays skinny!? - Natural Fat Burning Foods - 3 To Eat Now (Phil Hixon)
They help you fight fat but also curb hunger! The trick is to not
|
