Going Home

Once your provider has given the discharge order, your health care team will begin to make the arrangements for a safe and comfortable transition home. A little time may be required to coordinate services with other community providers if you require nursing care at home or medical equipment or supplies. Please be assured you will not be charged for another day unless your stay extends beyond midnight. If you will require special medical equipment for your recuperation, the nursing and social services staff will work with you to find available resources.  Some important things to remember concerning:

Personal Belongings
Collect all of your belongings and double-check closets and drawers. If you have anything stored in the hospital safe, let your nurse know and she will get it for you before you leave.

Discharge Instructions
Please ask your nurse or social worker any remaining questions you may have on care needed at home, medication and follow-up appointments.

Medications
If your provider gives you a prescription, it can be called to the pharmacy of your choice. If you brought medication from home that is being held for you, please remind your nurse to get it for you.

Transportation Service
When you are ready to leave, a member of the hospital staff will escort you to the front entrance and help you into the vehicle.

Skilled Nursing/Swing Bed Care
There are occasions when patients need additional treatment or care after they are discharged from the hospital. Skilled Nursing/Swing Bed Care is designed for patients who no longer require acute care in a hospital but who need additional short-term care before discharge. Rehabilitation and specialized nursing care are emphasized.