What Should I Expect from an Inpatient Stay?

Your inpatient stay in a hospital will require some preparation. If you are the adult or guardian of a child patient, you may require a special security badge, so proper identification may be necessary. During the initial registration process of an inpatient stay, forms relating to health questions and medical insurance will need to be completed. If you do not have a communicable illness, you should be allowed visitors during special hours. An inpatient stay at a rehabilitation center will typically involve a thorough evaluation and physical therapy sessions.

Upon arrival at the facility for your inpatient stay, you will be admitted into your room by a staff member from the admissions department. Regulations may vary depending on the facility, although the signing of a consent form is typically required. In addition to providing proper identification and health insurance card, it is necessary to compose a list of any allergies or medical conditions you have, as well as medications you must take. You should also expect the hospital staff to inform you that you will be responsible for your valuables.

During your inpatient stay, only your physician may prescribe medications or treatments for you. In most cases, you will not be allowed to take any other medications from home. A nurse will typically administer your prescribed dosages per instructions from your doctor.

If you require a special diet, a certified nutritionist will prepare your meals during your inpatient stay. Most of the food items will be chosen based on the recommendation of your physician. If you suffer from food allergies or intolerance, you must inform your doctor beforehand.

Most hospitals, centers, and other inpatient facilities will serve meals at a designated time. You can expect to eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the same time each day you are there. A staff member or nurse will inform you of the hours each meal will be served.

Regulations will be enforced during your inpatient stay. In most cases, you will not be allowed to smoke within a specified distance from the building's entrance. This is to ensure the comfort and well being of other patients as well as your own.

Before you are discharged from your inpatient stay, you can expect your physician to present you with a list of instructions for your follow-up care. He will typically inform you of any special measures you need to take, and give you prescriptions for medications you will require. If you require medical or therapy equipment for your convalescence, he will inform you where you may obtain them.