Hospital Stays: What to Expect and Tips for Patients

While no one wants to be in the hospital, it's likely that you or someone close to you will experience a hospital stay at some point. Being informed about what to expect can help make the experience less stressful and more comfortable. Here's a guide to the different stages of a hospital stay and some insider tips to help you navigate the process.

The Emergency Room

The emergency room (ER) is for true emergencies, such as chest pain, severe headaches, uncontrolled bleeding, or difficulty breathing. When you arrive at the ER, you'll go through a process called triage, where you'll be assigned a priority level based on the severity of your condition. Patients with life-threatening issues will be seen immediately, while those with less urgent problems may wait for hours.

If possible, call your primary care provider before going to the ER. They can help determine if you need emergency care and may be able to expedite the process by calling ahead.

What to Expect in the ER

• Assessment by a nurse

• Vital signs check (blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, pain level)

• Examination by a physician's assistant (PA) or emergency room doctor

• Tests and treatments as needed

• Decision about whether you need to be admitted or can go home with a care plan

Hospital Admission

If the ER team determines that you're too ill to go home, you'll be admitted to the hospital. Depending on the severity of your condition, you may be placed in the intensive care unit (ICU) for close monitoring or in a regular hospital room.

The Medical Team

During your hospital stay, you'll be cared for by a team of healthcare professionals, which may include:

• Nurses

• Interns, residents, and fellows (doctors in training)

• Physician's assistants (PAs) or nurse practitioners

• Attending physician (the senior doctor in charge of your care)

• Specialists (consultants) as needed

Discharge: Going Home

When you're ready to leave the hospital, a member of the medical staff will review your discharge plan with you. This may include:

• Follow-up appointments with your primary care doctor or specialists

• Prescriptions

• Home care instructions

• Arrangements for a visiting nurse, if needed

Don't hesitate to ask questions about your discharge plan, no matter how small they may seem. It's essential to leave the hospital feeling informed and empowered.

Insider Tips for Your Hospital Stay

1. Bring reading material, phone chargers, and a list of your medications to the ER, if possible.

2. Keep your primary care doctor informed throughout your stay and ensure they receive written documentation upon discharge.

3. Ask questions and use the nurse call button when you need assistance or are in pain.

4. Make sure the staff knows how to reach your family or healthcare proxy.

5. Request explanations for anything you don't understand and repeat back what you've heard to ensure clarity.

6. Take control by asking each person who cares for you about their role and the purpose of any tests or procedures.

7. Inquire about available services, such as spiritual visits, pain consults, or nutritionists, through the patient-family liaison or social workers.

8. Share your emotions with your treatment team, as tending to your emotional health is part of getting well.

Remember, a hospital stay can be a challenging experience, but being informed and advocating for yourself can help make the process more manageable. Don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare team or patient advocates if you have concerns or need assistance during your stay.