Your role in the ER:

• To calm and reassure the person in your care
• To help answer questions from physicians and other staff
• To ask for assistance if there's a problem
• To get attention if things seem to reach a standstill
• To listen to the diagnosis and discharge instructions
• To ask questions as needed for clarification

• Where to find help: Depending on the patient's condition and the nature of the discharge instructions, you may want to inquire about discharge planning services. This hospital service, usually provided by a social worker, helps you learn how best to help the patient carry out discharge instructions and handle follow-up care. You will also receive information about other resources, such as visiting-nurse or home-health-aide services.

You should feel free to ask for help from the hospital social worker (or geriatric case manager) if, at any point during the emergency-room treatment, the situation becomes overwhelming, or you need assistance advocating for the patient, or if he must be hospitalized and you need help and advice.