Staying in the hospital is exactly a fun thing to do. And yet it’s often necessary for a variety of reasons, from undergoing surgery or treatment to simply being monitored. When you get to go home, it’s a relief. It can also be a little worrying though, especially if you’ve been in the hospital a long time or some big things have changed.
Getting back on your feet might take a while, so it’s a good idea to prepare for your homecoming. Making the right moves can make it easier for you to recover and either get back to normal or adjust to a new normal.
Talk to Your Doctor About Your Recovery
The first thing you need to do after a stay in the hospital is talk to your doctor about your recovery. They will help you ensure you’re taking the right steps to help yourself heal once you get home. They might prescribe medication or give you instructions on things you should and shouldn’t do. For example, some people might go home with a set of physical therapy exercises to help them recover from an injury. You might need to arrange follow-up appointments too so you can check on your progress.
Managing Your Finances
Having to stay in the hospital can mean your finances take a hit. You have medical bills to pay, and you might have to take a fair amount of time off work too. To make matters worse, some people find that they are the victims of medical malpractice, making both their health and their financial situation worse. According to Salvi, Schostok and Pritchard, up to 250,000 Americans each year are victims of medical malpractice. For many people, the first step to managing your finances would be contacting your insurance provider, and possibly hiring an attorney. Other steps you might take include creating a new budget, looking for a new job, or staying in touch with your current employer.
Getting Help at Home
Some people might need some help at home when they return from the hospital. You might not need to be in a medical setting anymore, but you could still require some assistance. Sometimes, you might need the help of a nurse or carer. On other occasions, a family member, friend or neighbor might be able to help you out. It depends on what you need help with and who you know who could lend you a hand.
Handling Your Emotions
The emotional effects of a hospital stay mustn’t be ignored. It can cause a range of negative emotions, even if you’re happy to go home. After your hospital stay, you might not be back to your old self yet, and sometimes you might never be exactly the same again. Talking to someone can help you work through your feelings. Sometimes, seeing a professional is best. Or you might consider a support group or calling a helpline if you just want someone who will listen to you.
Recovering from a hospital stay can take a while, or you could be back to normal in no time. Don’t rush your recovery if you don’t want to suffer a setback.