Grandma Jane was recently released from the hospital after her hip replacement surgery. Though the doctors have cleared her to head home, it is apparent she still needs some day-to-day help while she’s healing.
Before checking out, you should talk to the hospital or doctor and put a plan in place for after your relative leaves their facility. This is called a discharge plan. The discharge plan should include elements such as post-operative care plans and recommendations for in-home help. The hospital should also help you put together a schedule of care for your relative and instructions on any medications they will be receiving.
You will probably have to make a few modifications to your relative’s home in order for them to be comfortable and safe. This can range from large projects like adding wheelchair ramps and widening doors to small changes such as adding lighting and non-skid surfaces to the bathtub.
Take some time to sit down with the in-home help to go over the discharge plan and your relative’s day-to-day activities. Even telling the caregiver about your relative’s personal preferences, from the food she eats to the TV she likes to watch, can go a long way in aiding in the recovery of the patient.
Finally, you should put an emergency plan in place. Make sure the in-home caregiver has contact information for your family along with the patient’s the medical records.
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