Before and After Hospital Stay Information

Category: Information & Resources

SCAN is here to help make the transition from hospital to home as smooth as possible.

Going to the Hospital? SCAN Can Help

Tips to help you plan out what to do before and after a planned hospital stay to make for a smoother transition and help in your recovery. Also, find out how SCAN can help in your preparation.

Where to Go When You Need Care

Doctor's office, urgent care center, hospital emergency room. It's great to have options for your care, but you may not know where to go when you need care that can't wait. Use this information sheet to help you decide.

Hospital Hints

Helpful tips including how to prepare for a stay, what to bring, and what to expect during discharge, and after a hospital stay.

Hospital Discharge Planning

This form is to help you manage your transition from hospital to home.

A Guide for Families and Caregivers This fact sheet gives tips for a successful transition from hospital to home

Tips to Help You Prevent Another Admission

  • Make a follow up appointment with your doctor or specialist within 7 days of discharge.
  • Bag all your medications and bring them to your appointment, also bring your discharge instructions to review.
  • Review warning signs and symptoms with your doctor
  • For Caregivers: The transition from hospital to home can be overwhelming and planning ahead can help.

Manage your Medications

It is important to be aware of when to take your medications, taking the right medications, at the right time and in the right amount. Asking the following questions before going home can help you do this job well:

  • What are the new medications I will need to take? How long will I need to take them?
  • How should these medications be taken? Do I take them with meals? At certain times each day?
  • Are there any known side effects for me to be aware of?
  • Can my new medications be taken with those I was taking prior to being hospitalized?
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