Reducing Hospital Readmissions: Ready, Set, Go Home

Here are Visiting Angels we know that reducing readmission is a top priority for families.  We have put together a home care resource called "Ready, Set, Go Home."  This resource purpose is to keep seniors recovering at home.

Ready, Set, Go Home is a transitional program that aims to help seniors return home after a hospitialization and make the necessary adjusted needed after a stay at the hospital.  We can help decrease the risk of preventable incidents that cause seniors to get readmitted to ER or hospital.  

How Can Visiting Angels Help Reduce Hospital Readmissions?

Visiting Angels provides non-medical services in the home setting following a hospital stay.  Some of these services include:

• Mobility and transfers
• Bathing
• Dressing/ Grooming
• Assisting with activities of daily living
• Medication reminders
• Meal preparation
• Light housekeeping
  

One of the most important things our Angels provide, is to be aware of any changes in condition and report to our Nurse Supervisor right away.  In fact, before each Angel ends each shift they answer several questions about changes noticed during their time with the senior.  If any changes are noted, the Nurse is brought in to notify family.  Early detection of change in mental status. pain, eating or ambulation is one of the keys in keeping seniors from being readmitted to the hospital. 

What Causes Hospital Readmission?

There are many things that can cause a senior to be readmitted to the hospital after discharge.  Often when you are recovering from a health event, surgery or serious illness, you experience pain, fatigue, medication side effects and an overall disruption in your regular routine of life.  You are not able to do the basic tasks around the home and there is a loss of independence.  Seniors often still want to be independent and push the limit while recovering.  We often see falls, a relapse of their illness or even another medical event.  All of these can lead to a hospital readmission. 

A Discharge Guide for a Successful Return Home from the Hospital

Here is what Ready, Set, Go Home Discharge Guide can do for seniors and their families. Using this guide will prepare everyone for a positive and successful return from the hospital.  

The guide is a place where all important information and questions can be writing down so you remember when speaking with your healthcare providers.  The guide also identifies areas of need and determine how that need will be meet.  The guide can also be used to maintain a comprehensive record for your follow up visits.  

Call us today for a Free Consultation and let us help seniors successfully return home and stay at home.