For those who are transitioning away from the hospital, it can feel as though there are an insurmountable number of factors to consider. Questions can dominate the process: Who will be leading my care? How can I avoid readmission? What will I need to do to prepare?

1. Plan an (early!) debrief with the hospital staff.

One of the best ways to prepare for the hospital-to-home transition is to debrief with the hospital staff. Ask them what to expect in the coming days of your recovery. It’s best to do this early, as this conversation will influence the planning stage for your hospital-to-home transition plan.

Make sure to take notes and ask follow up questions when you don’t understand something.

2. Collect your personal health intel. 

Once you have discussed with the hospital staff, it’s time to compile your health data into one place. The specific data will vary from person to person, but there are some common things that you will want to have on hand. These documents should include:

➢ Medication list with potential side effects;

➢ Contact information of all healthcare providers;

➢ Personal health history updated with most recent hospitalization.

3. Assemble your team.

Now that you’ve gathered your intel, it’s time to get the team together! You’ll want to assemble a healthcare network that can see you through your recovery. This could be a variety of home care assistance staff, be it a registered nurse or home health aide.

4. Prepare the home

You’ll want to alter your home to aid in the recovery. Have someone set up a temporary bedroom on the first floor if the patient lives in a two story home. Install non-slip pads and shower seats in the bathroom, for ease of use. Make sure that the space is slip proof and accessible to the patient’s new mobility.

5. Focus on your recovery

The best way to ensure your hospital to home transition is a success, is to focus on you! You, or your loved one, have put the legwork in to manage the transition. You’ve collected your intel, assembled a healthcare team, and prepared the home for your recovery. Now all that’s left to do is to ease back into your home and focus on getting better. Contact a home health aide for help today!