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.
Being Discharged After Surgery
When you are ready to be discharged from the hospital after surgery, but your transportation has not arrived, you can comfortably wait for your ride in the Inpatient Departure Lounge, located in the 45 Francis Street Lobby. Family or friends can drive directly to the Lobby Entrance to pick you up (and avoid the cost of parking!).
The Lounge is open Monday through Friday (non-holidays), from 10 am to 6 pm, and a Departure Lounge Ambassador is available to help if you need assistance or need to contact your ride. To reach the Departure Lounge Ambassador, call 781-783-8688. View Departure Lounge flyer.
