You’re likely looking forward to when your child can return home from the hospital. Planning for your child’s discharge involves all the members of your child’s healthcare team. They’ll work closely with you to prepare for your child’s needs at home. Below are some of the things to know about hospital discharge.
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Hospital staff, such as a discharge planner or case manager, can advise you on various topics. They can help with insurance or hospital billing, refer you to helpful resources, and answer questions.
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Nursing staff and other healthcare team members go over any necessary information, such as instructions for medicines, with you. They'll show you how to do home care tasks and practice with you as needed. You’ll have the chance to ask any questions so that you fully understand these instructions.
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Schedule a follow-up appointment with your child’s primary healthcare provider before you leave the hospital.
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Make sure you have contact information for how to get supplies. This is if your child needs equipment, such as a feeding pump.
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Check with a member of your child’s healthcare team that prescriptions are filled. Have pain medicines ready before leaving.
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Have a change of clothes ready for your child. Your child will change from a hospital gown into street clothes before leaving the hospital.
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Check that you have all your child’s belongings with you.
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Have a mode of transportation (such as a car or taxi) ready to take you and your child home. A car seat may be required by state law if you have an infant, toddler, or small child.
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A wheelchair is used to take your child from the hospital room out to the car. This is to make sure your child leaves the hospital safely.