You, and your family or friends (if you want them to be), will be included in the decision making process along with the team who are looking after you. They’ll talk to you about why they feel you are ready to leave hospital and what the next steps will be.
Staying in hospital longer than you need to increases your risk of infection. It can also lead to loss of independence and confidence.
What happens when I get discharged?
Most patients go back home and recover well without any further support
The doctors and other professionals will make an assessment of your ongoing health and social care needs. They’ll discuss this with you and choose the most appropriate support for your recovery and ongoing care.
If you no longer need hospital care but still need time and support to recover, you may be eligible and benefit from the reablement service:
Reablement is a service that helps build up your strength, confidence and ability to remain independent. You’ll be advised about this more if it’s something that the professionals consider to be appropriate for you, at the time of your discharge. Please note: charges may apply for this service.
If you have any questions about your discharge or you’re worried that you might need help when you get home and you’re not sure if it’s been arranged, you can speak to the staff on the ward.
Things to arrange before you go home
You may want to consider:
- Informing your existing private care providers of the day you’ll return home
- Checking someone is at home for delivery of any equipment or adaptations and is able to see how it works
- Arranging for transport home – hospital transport is normally only arranged in exceptional circumstances, so check with ward staff or look for other patient transport options
- Preparing your home, so it’s warm enough with food and drink available – tell the ward staff if you don’t have anyone to put the heating on or do the shopping for you
- Ensure you have suitable outdoor clothing and shoes for the weather
- Don’t forget to take all of your belongings, including keys, glasses and medication
What to do when you get home
Resume your usual routine and activities
Unless you’ve been told not to, it’s important that you get back to your usual routines and activities as soon as possible. You’ll need to build up your activity levels and exercise a bit more each day.
Your health
If you have any health concerns, call the NHS helpline on 111 or contact your GP.
Managing at home
If you have any concerns about managing your own care at home, please contact Adult Social Care .
Information and advice
For Leicestershire residents who want to improve their health, well-being and quality of life, the First Contact Plus website contains details of local organisations that can help you to stay fit, healthy, happy and independent. You can talk to an advisor by completing the online referral form.
Additional information on living independently after being discharged from hospital is also available in the latest issue of Options Leicestershire and Rutland – A guide to care and independent living .