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Monday, February 21, 2011

Ask for more than 8 minutes

Unfortunately, too many patients discharged from the hospital make are admitted again within 30 days of their discharge.  While the DSP blog thinks that hospitals are great for cable, decent food, and sometimes a front row seat to quite a bit of excitement depending on who your roommate is or what condition is ailing her, all in all, it seems like a fairly expensive way to entertain oneself in this way.  Although the DSP blog was quite saddened by a number of things in this recent overview of the problem, potentially most distressing was this quote:  "Nationally, nurses spend an average of eight minutes on discharge education -- that time spent on education is probably inadequate for anything."  Eight minutes?  The DSP blog feels that if the guy at the oil change place can spend close to 8 minutes reviewing what they did for my car, and how I can take advantage of their free top-off policy between oil changes, then the nurse at the hospital can spend a little more than 8 minutes explaining a) what I need to do when I leave, including my medications, activity, and wound care, and b) which doctors I need to see and when, and under what conditions should I call for an earlier appointment.  The DSP blog would add that before you leave the hospital, you should have a friend fill your discharge prescriptions and you should make your follow up appointments so any issues can be dealt with before you leave the hospital.  

2 comments:

  1. I never get my favorite cable chanels, the food leaves much to be desired and as for roommates they either clearly have a psychiatric disorder or I'm in isolation due to my history of hospital aquired mrsa. I will give you credit for making me laugh. I bring my laptop and Ipod so I get by.
    I do agree with you on dischrarge instructions, many is the time I was discharged more confused than not

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  2. You made me laugh. Don't apologize about asking your nurse or your doctor whatever questions you need answered so you understand how best to navigate your way back to your normal state of health.

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