Chapter 1

At The Hospital

Mom was sitting in a wheelchair and needed to be transferred back to bed for a nap. Because she could not get up on her own, the hospital "lift team" was called to the room to move her. The guy who showed up was built like an Olympic weightlifter, a mini-Arnold Schwarzenegger. He leaned over Mom, who was 5'-7" and about 125 pounds and started to lift her up. After much straining, he wheezed, "She is really heavy. I'm not sure if I can do this." I noticed the wheelchair wheels were a few inches off the floor, so I suggested he put her down and try again after releasing the wheelchair seat belt. We all had a good laugh.

If you are caring for a loved one who is ill, you will have many new experiences as a patient advocate. At first, you may know little about how the medical system works and what you can do to help care for your loved one, but by observing and learning, trusting your instincts, applying common sense and speaking up, you will make helpful contributions to your loved one's care. As you navigate the medical journey with your loved one through the hospital and later at home, you will naturally develop knowledge and skills to become a more effective advocate.

This handbook accelerates your healthcare orientation by examining common situations, so you can be prepared sooner to participate more effectively as an advocate at the hospital and at home.

This chapter covers the hospital stay. Chapters 2, 3 and 4 bring up home healthcare issues you should consider and address before leaving the hospital.

 

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Foreword

Preface

Contents

Chapter 2 Before Leaving The Hospital: Questions To Ask Doctors And Nurses

Chapter 3 Before Leaving The Hospital: Arranging Visiting Nurses And Therapists

Chapter 4 Before Leaving The Hospital: Arranging Home Healthcare Equipment And Supplies

Chapter 5 Extra Equipment At Home

Chapter 6 Staying Organized At Home

Chapter 7 Oxygen Equipment And Respiratory Issues

Chapter 8 Suction Machines And Equipment Troubleshooting

Chapter 9 Antibiotics And Infection Prevention

Chapter 10 Tube Feeding Issues And Tips

Chapter 11 Original Medicare, Private Insurance And Billing Issues