Navigating Post-Hospital Care: 4 Essential Steps for a Smooth Recovery

Have you ever left the hospital with a loved one after a surgery, or the ER with your child after an injury or illness? Being discharged from the hospital, whether after a scheduled procedure or an unexpected emergency, can be a stressful experience. The transition from the structured environment of the hospital to the comfort of your home requires careful planning and preparation. Ensuring that you or your loved one has everything needed for acute post-hospital care and a safe and smooth recovery at home is crucial.

Here are four key considerations to keep in mind for post-hospital care:

1. Patient Care Needs and Directives

Upon discharge, a nurse will typically provide you with important after-care instructions. These may include activity restrictions, dietary guidelines, medication management, and the need for follow-up appointments with your healthcare providers. This often feels like information overload when you’re trying to mentally prepare for leaving the hospital, but it’s essential to fully understand these directives to avoid complications and ensure a smooth recovery.

• Action Step: Request a printed copy of all discharge instructions. Take additional notes during the conversation, and don’t hesitate to ask clarifying questions. Understanding these details will help you avoid any confusion later on. Make note of any follow up visits and set calendar reminders for later so you don’t forget.

2. Home Supply and Safety Needs

Your home may not be equipped with all the necessary supplies or setups required for a successful recovery. Whether it’s medical equipment, wound care supplies, medication, special bedding, or mobility aids, having the right tools on hand is vital. Additionally, consider home safety: remove trip hazards, make room for larger medical equipment if necessary, and ensure easy access to medications and emergency contacts. Don’t forget to assess any extra comfort measures you can take as well for the patient to be able to rest and recover.

• Action Step: Create a list of all necessary medical supplies and equipment or home modifications needed. If you’re unsure what’s needed, reach out to a trusted medical professional, or give us a call! Our nurses are always willing to be a resource for you. Make arrangements to acquire these items or make adjustments before the patient returns home if possible. Consider any training you may need to operate the equipment safely.

3. Recovery Timeline

Recovery times can vary widely depending on the nature of the procedure. Some patients may recover in a matter of days, while others may require weeks or even months of care. Understanding your recovery timeline is essential, particularly if you rely on a caregiver who may have other responsibilities.

• Action Step: Plan ahead for the duration of your recovery. Ensure that you have a clear understanding of the timeline and any specific care needs that will arise at different stages. Consider any conflicts with your primary caregiver’s schedule, and also plan for opportunities to give them some reprieve so the responsibility does not fall solely on one person if possible. This preparation will help you avoid unnecessary stress during the recovery process for both the patient and their caregivers.

4. Support Needs and Wants

Support during recovery is critical. While family and friends often step in to help, there are times when specialized care is necessary. A private duty nurse can provide the professional assistance needed to fill in gaps left by family caregivers or to offer more consistent and specialized care throughout the recovery process.

• Action Step: Assess your support needs and consider enlisting the help of a private duty nurse if necessary. These professionals can help manage your recovery, allowing you and your loved ones to focus on healing without the added stress of managing care.

Our Top Tip: Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help!

Whether it’s professional support from a private duty nurse, assistance from family and friends, or simply asking around for the resources and supplies you need, having a strong support network is key to a successful recovery. Don’t hesitate to reach out for the help you need during this critical time.

Meet The 24-Hour Package

When discharged from the hospital, the first few days are the most critical. We understand the challenges and nuances of post-hospital care, and we’re here to help. It’s why we developed the 24 Hour Package, and why many families turn to us after hospital visits, both big and small.

The Package Includes 24 hours of dedicated concierge nursing care services.

You will receive personalized care designed around your needs in the comfort of your home, or wherever you choose to recover, such as a hotel room or AirBnB. Additionally, the allotted 24 hours do not have to be consecutive, and can be broken up as needed for up to one week to offer flexibility and help you maximize our services. This can be a great way to supplement, support and provide relief to family caretakers and provide everyone peace of mind. Our nurses can help you get set up at home with all the proper supplies, show you how to properly care for the patient’s recovery needs, and be available for any questions you may have that you didn’t think of in the hospital.

Our post-hospital nursing care services are designed around your needs, but common offerings include:

• Assisted physician office visits
• Care coordination for physician appointments and procedures
• Case management
• Home Visits & vital sign checks
• Medication management and administering IV antibiotics
• IV hydration
• Meal & showering assistance
• Wound care
• Sourcing and teaching proper usage for medical supplies and equipment
• and more

Once the package is purchased, we will contact you to schedule a call with one of our nurses to assess your needs and schedule service days and times. Additional hours can be added on at a discounted rate as well, so you can have continuation of care for as long as needed.

Our concierge nursing services are tailored to meet your specific needs, ensuring you receive the best possible care in the comfort of your home. Whether you need short-term support or long-term care, our experienced nurses are ready to assist.

Call us today at (225) 320-1201, our visit our scheduling site to book a complimentary discovery call and learn how our nurses can support your recovery. We’re here for you every step of the way.