Preparing for discharge Getting the information you need Your physician and nurse will give you discharge instructions and answer your questions (be sure to ask about your medications and next steps in your treatment). Feel free to take notes or ask your support person to do that for you. If you are confused about anything, don’t be afraid to ask. It’s very important that you understand all of your discharge instructions before you leave the hospital. Try to have a support person with you. It helps if you have another set of eyes and ears to help absorb instructions and other information, as well as to ask questions. Know your medications. Your nurse will sit down with you to explain any new medications you’ve been prescribed. She or he will help you to understand thoroughly how to manage your medications. Ask which to take, how often, and how to take each prescription.
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Welcome to Kaiser Permanente Westside Medical Center
Schedule a follow-up appointment. Make sure you have a post-hospital follow-up appointment with your physician or have information on how and when to make an appointment. Talk with people who coordinate your care. During your stay, talk with an inpatient care manager. And, be sure you and/or your support person or caregiver have spoken with a discharge nurse and have clear understanding as to what services, appointments, medication, and other supports you’ll need after leaving the hospital. Let us know if we can arrange transportation. If you’d like, we can contact your support person and ask them to pick you up.