Your stay at Brigham and Women’s Hospital may be as short as one day or as long as several weeks. However, on average, a patient is in the hospital for two to four days. For your convenience, it is important to begin planning for discharge as early as possible.
Before Admission
The things that you will need to consider prior to your admission to the hospital include the following:
- How will you get home from the hospital?
- Who will be at home to help you?
- What medications will you need?
- What types of ongoing care will you need at home after discharge (visiting nurses, dressing changes, oxygen, etc.)?
- Do you need temporary care at a rehabilitation or skilled nursing facility rather than discharge directly to home?
- What limitations will there be on your activity?
- When can you return to work, driving, etc.?
- Do you have any additional questions?
During Your Hospital Stay
Every patient has an RN Care Coordinator as a member of his or her health care team. Care Coordination staff are available to provide information prior to and during your admission to the hospital. Discharge planning begins early in your hospitalization and care coordination staff can help you and your family and friends make plans to help ensure a smooth care transition.
If you need help with discharge planning, speak with your nurse or contact the Care Coordination Department at (617) 732-6469.
