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Preparing for Discharge
Your doctor determines when you are ready to be discharged. Your doctor and nurse will give you discharge instructions and answer any questions you have about managing your treatment and medications once you are home.
If you are confused or unsure about what you need to do, what medications you must take, or if you have to restrict your diet or activities, don’t be afraid
to ask and take notes. Be sure you understand any instructions you have been given before you leave
the hospital.
In most cases, patients can anticipate discharge 1.5 hours after the doctor issues the order for their discharge.
GOING HOME
When your doctor feels that you are ready to leave the hospital, he or she will authorize a hospital discharge.
Please speak with your nurse about our discharge procedures.
Here are a few tips to make the discharge process run smoothly:
• Be sure you and/or your caregiver have spoken with a discharge planner and that you understand what services you may need after leaving the hospital.
• Verify your discharge date and time with your nurse or doctor.
• Have someone pick you up.
• Check your room, bathroom and
bedside table carefully for any
personal items.
• Make sure you or your caregiver has
all necessary paperwork for billing, referrals, prescriptions, etc.
ADDITIONAL SERVICES
There are times when a patient needs additional treatment or care after he or she leaves the hospital. Our Case Managers will assist you in arranging the additional care or medical equipment that you will need. The following services are o ered by West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital (WCCH) to
assist with your transition to the home environment and your road to recovery.
• Lifeline-Philips Lifeline is a national medical alert service provided by WCCH as a service to the community. It is an easy-to-use medical alert service that helps older adults to live safely and independently in their own homes. The Lifeline program is designed to provide each subscriber with prompt, courteous care at the press of a button 24 hours a day,
365 days a year.
• Pharmacy-In addition to our
inpatient pharmacy, we also o er the services of our Outpatient Pharmacy. This full service pharmacy is open to the community and is extremely helpful in lling prescriptions at the time of discharge. Our pharmacists are
very knowledgeable and willing to provide information about any of the medications prescribed for you. Outpatient Pharmacy hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For additional information, call 337-527-4174.
PREPARING FOR DISCHARGE