Introduction
The news that you can return home from the hospital is undoubtedly a cause for celebration. However, we understand that this transition can also be worrying as there is so much to organise, which may feel overwhelming. Rest assured, we’re here to support you every step of the way. In our blog series titled ‘Understanding the Hospital Discharge Process: What to Expect’, we previously outlined the steps involved in the discharge process. In this blog, we look into the details further.
Medication
When you are discharged, the hospital typically provides you with a two-week supply of prescribed medications. If your condition necessitates ongoing medication, your GP should arrange a repeat prescription for you. We would recommend that you contact your GP to ensure the repeat prescription is in place as soon as you get home.
Your GP will receive a discharge letter from the hospital detailing your medication. You will also receive a copy of this letter. It is crucial to discuss this letter with your GP to determine if there have been any changes to your medication or the introduction of new medications. In this letter, each medication will be clearly labelled; if a medication should be continued beyond the supplied amount, your GP will advise you accordingly. This will involve your GP reviewing and renewing the prescription as needed.
If you have a designated carer, it’s advisable to keep them informed about these medication updates to ensure they can provide you with effective assistance.
You may also be given some medications to take home with you that require administration by a visiting district nurse. This may include injections or wound dressings. These home visits will be arranged by the hospital before you are discharged.
Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy (OT) is an invaluable healthcare service that helps individuals of all ages get greater independence and an improved quality of life. Its primary focus is to help individuals in the development or restoration of essential skills necessary for everyday activities, such as dressing, cooking, and mobility, especially following illness, injury, or disability.
Ideally, the hospital should take the initiative to establish contact with an OT service on your behalf. In cases where delays may occur, it’s advisable to proactively engage your GP to arrange a visit from an occupational therapist.
The OT will visit your home and conduct a comprehensive assessment, examining your home environment. This evaluation is an in-depth look at your sleeping and seating arrangements and the accessibility of your bathroom facilities to ensure they align with your specific needs.
Following this assessment, the occupational therapist will explore various options tailored to your unique requirements. These options include:
1. Provision of equipment: If necessary, the therapist may recommend specialised equipment to enhance your daily life.
2. Advice on home alterations: Should your home need any modifications to better align with your needs, the OT will provide expert advice on these alterations.
3. Alternative methods for daily activities: The therapist will explore alternative approaches to enable you to execute your daily activities with greater ease.
If, during the assessment, the occupational therapist determines that you require specific equipment, the necessary orders will be placed, and the equipment will be promptly delivered to your home.
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy is crucial in helping individuals regain strength, mobility, and independence after an illness, surgery, or injury. During these sessions, a qualified physiotherapist will assess your physical condition and create a tailored exercise and rehabilitation program to address your specific needs.
As you prepare to leave the hospital, your post-discharge care plan may include a referral for physiotherapy. It’s the responsibility of your healthcare team to arrange the necessary appointments and decide if physiotherapy is an essential component of your recovery process.
During this initial phase, the hospital will cover the expenses related to your physiotherapy sessions, ensuring you receive valuable support. There are leaflets available at the hospital to provide you with additional knowledge to help you navigate this aspect of your recovery.
Transport
When preparing for your discharge, you should plan for a family member or friend to collect you. If you are unable to walk out of the hospital unaided and you do not have anyone who can meet and collect you, you must let the hospital know as soon as possible. A non-emergency patient transport services (PTS) will then take you home. You may be asked some questions about your home and any access that requires assistance of paramedics or other trained staff to get you into your home safely.
Please note that the availability and waiting times of PTS may vary by region.
As you embark on this new phase, please keep in mind that a robust support system is readily available, and accessible resources are here to enhance your recovery and overall well-being.
