The days after a hospital stay are when most families feel most alone. The hospital team has done its work; the home has not been prepared; and the person who knows the most is often driving in from another city. A plan written before discharge makes the difference.

Before you leave

Ask for the written discharge instructions and the full medicine list. Book follow-up appointments before you go and write the dates down. Agree who stays for the first 72 hours.

The first day home

Clear the paths, remove loose rugs, put night lights on the way to the bathroom and a phone within reach of the bed and chair. Have three days of easy meals ready.

Days 2 to 14

Keep the follow-up visit. Set out medicines exactly as prescribed. Arrange the safety changes that matter most: rails, lighting and the bathroom. Name a trusted contact at the bank, and talk about scam calls, which rise after a hospital stay.

If you would like the plan run for you, book a free 20-minute call.