Whether they are unexpected or pre-arranged, planning for a hospital stay (inpatient) or day surgery (outpatient) procedure can be stressful and worrisome.
Here are some practical tips and resources on navigating planned and unexpected visits to hospitals, ERs or day-surgery (outpatient) facilities.
"Keep Cool" using the ICE technique!
Create ICE (In Case of Emergency) contacts & documents IN ADVANCE
- Current medication list, medical conditions/medical history, insurance & healthcare provider contact information--print, electronic, flash
drive
- Personal Health Records (MedlinePlus)
- ISMP Universal Medication FormAn excellent template for recording important medical and medication information from ISMP (Institute for Safe Medication Practices)
- Emergency contacts (e.g. print or electronic document or programmed into cell phone)
- Also includes medical alert jewelry, wallet cards, etc.
- Create Living Will, Power of Attorney for Health Care, and/or "5 Wishes" documents and share with providers, facilities, friends/family
- See Illinois Legal Aid Online (use the search feature to look up key words/phrases) and 5 Wishes for more information on these documents
- IDPH Advance Directives: resources, forms, laws & rules, publications
- HINT: Bring MULTIPLE copies!
Use the "Buddy System"
Don't try to navigate the healthcare system alone. Have a trusted partner, friend, relative or professional service provider accompany you for support and advocacy!
- Buddies provide stress relief and companionship
- Buddies can serve as another "set of eyes and ears," advocates, questioners, representatives of your wishes, communicators (to family/friends and health professionals)
- Many procedures, surgeries, facilities will REQUIRE patients to be accompanied by an adult that can drive or escort patients home and be present during a procedure in case of emergency
Know Your W5H1s!
Check with insurance & healthcare providers, hospitals & outpatient facilities to find out the Who, What, When, Where, Why & How (W5H1)
If you are not clear about any aspect of the process, ASK and continue asking until you've been given an answer
Don't be rude--be empowered and understand your role and responsibilities in the process
Rely on your advocate (buddy or buddies) to ask on your behalf if you cannot!
Buddies, it is YOUR job to look out for your patient--little things mean a LOT!
Patients Are Responsible For:
- Providing proof of insurance and understanding plan coverage
- Providing a comprehensive list of medications (including prescription, over the counter, herbs & supplements)
- Following directions regarding eating and drinking prior to any procedure or surgery
- Asking about and following directions regarding taking (or refraining from taking) medications prior to procedures or surgery
- Notifying health professionals if you come down with a fever, cold or any other illness prior to a scheduled procedure
- Asking questions when unclear about any step in the process
- Understanding diseases/conditions and treatment options (medications, procedures)
Waiting Room Tips
- Be patient, considerate, respectful and responsible
- Be aware that families deal with waiting, stress, illness, and anxiety differently
- Be respectful of patients' rights to privacy when communicating
- Be prepared (or know what to ask for) during the long waits or when supporting a patient!
Additional Resources
Websites
10 Items to Pack in Your Hospital Bag (U.S. News & World Report)
Hospital Survival Guide—Consumer Reports
When Your Child Has Surgery (Nemours Foundation--Kidshealth.org)
Prepare for your child's surgery by learning about different procedures, anesthesia, and more
American Society of Anesthesiologists: Made for This Moment
The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) patient website designed to educate about anesthesia, surgery considerations, pain management, and the medical experts committed to patient safety and high-quality care during surgery, procedures, and other treatments
The Night Before Your Surgery (MedlinePlus encyclopedia article)
Preventing Infections When Visiting Someone in the Hospital (MedlinePlus encyclopedia article)
Books
How to Be a Patient by Call Number: General R727.3 .G55 2019ISBN: 9780062797186Publication Date: 2019A timely, accessible, and comprehensive handbook to navigating common medical situations.
The Informed Patient: A Complete guide to a Hospital Stay by Call Number: General RA965.6 .F75 2017ISBN: 9781501709951Publication Date: 2017A guide and a workbook, divided into topical, focused sections with step-by-step instructions, insights, and tips illustrating what patients and their families can expect during a hospital stay.
Your Child in the Hospital by Call Number: General RJ242 .K44 2015ISBN: 9781941089996Publication Date: 2015Your Child in the Hospital: A Practical Guide for Parents is packed with sensible tips and home-grown wisdom that will make any visit to the hospital easier.
Need Help?
Need research help and not sure where to turn? Get help from the library via email, chat, and online appointments or stop by one of our reference desks during open hours of operation.
Want to contact your Nursing & Health Sciences Librarian or set up a virtual or F2F appointment with her? Email Debra Smith: smithkak@cod.edu