Tips For Medication Management After a Hospital Stay
Returning home after a hospital stay can be a breath of fresh air. However, some seniors may find it challenging to implement medication changes, experiencing confusion regarding which medications they should take, when to take them, and the proper dosage according to their physician’s instructions.
Medication management is vital for seniors transitioning from a hospital stay to their homes, especially during the first 72 hours after discharge. Visiting Angels of Matawan offers transitional care services to ensure seniors have the resources necessary to successfully recover after a hospital discharge. With the help of your assigned Visiting Angels Registered Nurse Supervisor, your medication list can be organized and explained. And with the assistance of your Visiting Angels Caregiver, you will receive daily reminders and support essential for seniors and their loved ones to gain peace of mind.
Ask Questions Before Discharging From the Hospital
Effectively managing a senior’s medications begins before discharge from the hospital or rehabilitation facility. Seniors should clarify the facility’s instructions with their primary care provider to ensure accuracy and to avoid any medication conflicts with medications the patient may have been prescribed prior to admission. Ideally, physicians can explain the medication regimen with a family member or caregiver present so that there isn’t any confusion.
Family members should consider creating a system to help manage medications. Seniors and their Visiting Angels can maintain a logbook of the medications they’ve taken each day. Visiting Angels of Matawan licensed caregivers will offer reminders to ensure the proper dosage and quantity is taken.
Attend Follow-Up Appointments
The purpose of a follow-up appointment is to ensure a patient is recovering as expected, which includes compliance with taking the prescribed medication. These appointments are vital to understanding how the medication is or is not assisting with recovery and enable the physician to answer any questions seniors may have regarding symptoms, medication, or any other part of the recovery process. Visiting Angels of Matawan caregivers can assist seniors with making and attending follow-up appointments to ensure their recovery is on track.
Consult With Doctor’s Office First
Seniors unsure of their medication instructions should speak with their physician to clarify any directions and avoid a potentially life-threatening situation. Even if you think you know the appropriate time and dosage to take, it never hurts to verify.
Call 911 For Immediate Medical Attention
If you believe you’ve taken a medication in error or are feeling unwell, call 911 immediately. Try to remember the last medication you took, how much you took, and when. Relay these details to the dispatcher or paramedic so they can treat you accordingly.
Ease the Transition Home With Visiting Angels of Matawan
Proper medication management can ensure a senior’s safety and improve their quality of life. During the transition between the hospital and home, medication management is even more critical for a senior’s well-being.
Visiting Angels of Matawan’s transitional care services ensures seniors receive the support they need after a hospital stay. Review our Ready-Set-Go Home Discharge Guide to learn more about how our care staff can help you or an aging loved one successfully make the transition home. If you’d like to learn more about transitional care or our additional senior home care services, contact us to schedule a free consultation.