LEAVING THE HOSPITAL

When your doctor decides you are ready to leave the hospital, a discharge order will be written. You may want to make arrangements with a family member or friend to help you. When you are ready to leave, a member of the hospital staff will escort you to the Registration Desk to make sure all your paperwork is complete and then will help you into the car. Some important things to remember include:

Personal Belongings
Collect all of your belongings and double-check closets and drawers. If you have personal medications at the nursing station or anything stored in the hospital safe, please inform your nurse.

Discharge Instructions
Your doctor and your nurse will give you instructions about post-hospital care. If you have questions about your diet, medication prescriptions, activities or other matters, please be sure to ask.

Discharge Options
There are occasions when patients need additional treatment or care after they are discharged from the hospital. To meet the special needs of these patients, WNH provides a discharge planner (see "Your Hospital Team") and offers some specific care options:

Skilled Nursing Unit
This unit 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. The Skilled Nursing Unit is not licensed for Medicaid.

Home Health Care
WNH Home Health is a full-service, Medicare-certified home care agency that provides nurses, nurse aides and therapists in your home. The service is available in portions of Cowley, Elk, Chautauqua, Butler and Sumner counties. Ask your nurse, the discharge planner, or call 221-2916, if you would like more information about these services.

Home Medical Equipment
The hospital provides information or can assist patients in need of "durable medical equipment," such as oxygen, wheelchairs and special beds. Ask your nurse or the discharge planner.