Top Tips for a Successful Hospital Stay

Going to the hospital is certainly not something anyone generally plans on or looks forward to; however, if the time arrives when you do have to stay at a hospital for any length of time, there are definitely things you can do to make that stay less stressful and your recovery as successful as possible.

1.       Reduce your stress by working with your insurance company ahead of time to let them know what    procedures/tests you’re going for and determine what is covered and/or pre-approved.

2.       Make sure you’ve notified business associates and family/friends about how long you’ll be absent, what obligations you’ll be unable to fulfill, and what your desires are for visitors during your stay.

3.        Have required documentation and forms with you when checking in.  This includes:

a.       Personal photo ID

b.      Health insurance cards

c.       List of medications (prescription and non-prescription)

d.      List of supplements (including herbs and vitamins)

e.      Health Proxy forms and Advance Directives

4.       Bring personal grooming items and cases for such things as glasses, hearing aids, and dentures.

5.       Get to know the nursing staff and aids taking care of you; forming a rapport with these professionals can only benefit you in the long run with your care and progress.

6.       Remember that you are the one in control of your treatment decisions.  It’s fine to ask for a second opinion, if you feel it’s warranted.  If you’re not comfortable with any treatments or procedures, do your due diligence before deciding to refuse the treatment.

7.       Be your own advocate or have someone with you who can be, if you’re indisposed; make sure everyone is informed.

8.       Be knowledgeable…don’t strictly rely on information given to you by others; know enough to ask good and appropriate questions…and don’t be afraid to ask them.  Know your patient rights.

9.       Communication (as always) is key, as in any “relationship”.  Ask questions…find out who you can ask questions of when you have them;  ask about your tests or procedure…what it will feel like, if there are risks and if so, are there alternatives.

10.   Continue communicating as you are getting ready to be discharged.  Know:

a.        How long your recovery should be

b.       The kind of care you will need

c.        What medication you’ll need to continue taking and which to stop

d.       Signs that your recovery isn’t progressing and when you need to see the doctor

e.       Resources for help you may need and/or medical equipment necessary for recovery

11.   Most importantly, keep a positive attitude and outlook for a healthy outcome!