- 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.
