Almost all patients feel elated when they realize that they are being discharged. Even when sometimes, this discharge means that they will be checked into a rehabilitation center, most patients still feel that they are winning.
It is important to note, however, that this transition from hospital to home or care facility is a crucial part of the entire recovery process. Several researchers found that a good and detailed discharge planning can cause great outcomes for patients as they move to the next stage of recovery.
Patients, the family as well as the healthcare providers all play significant roles in securing a patient’s health all throughout this ordeal. But with all the tasks to do, it is sometimes inevitable to get some important matters overlooked.
Do not worry; our brand of care at Comfort Care Home Health Care in Stony Island Chicago Illinois is sure to give your family member a good headway towards healing. What is discharge planning? What should be included in this plan? Why is a good discharge plan important for the patient?
Here, we will attempt to answer all those questions that have been swirling in your head.
What is discharge planning?
As Medicare described, discharge planning is a process used to decide what a patient needs for a smooth move from one level of care to another. Even if the actual discharge of the patient from the hospital rests with the physician, planning for discharge can be performed by a nurse or case manager. Since most cases that require an extensive discharge plan are usually for complicated medical conditions, preparing this discharge plan usually becomes a team effort.
What should be included in the discharge plan?
First and foremost, there has to be an evaluation of the patient’s condition. This should be performed by a qualified medical practitioner. You also need to plan out the details of the actual transfer from the hospital to the home or to a care facility. Take note of transfer dates or if there is a need to engage the services of a medical transport. You also need to determine if there is a need for a caregiver. Follow-up appointments and needed visits to the hospital should also be noted.
Why is a discharge plan important?
Just like any other thing you need to plan for, a good discharge plan organizes events and resources. If done effectively, a good discharge plan will help reduce the chances that the patient is readmitted to the hospital. With the presence of experienced caregivers, medication errors can also be prevented while away from the hospital.
Plan for comfort with Comfort Care Home Health Care!
