Making the Transition from Hospital to Home
One concern with COPD is that an exacerbation, or flare-up, could be severe enough to require a trip to the hospital. Some flare-ups can be caught and treated early, but if you do have to go to the hospital, there are a few things you can do to prepare yourself for your stay and make the transition back home as easy and smooth as possible.
In This Article
Going to the Hospital
If you need to go to the hospital, make sure you bring the following:
- An up-to-date list of your medications and doses
- A list of any seasonal, medical, or other allergies
- Contact information for a loved one who can help you with medical decision-making
- Your COPD Action Plan
- Information on medical power of attorney or medical directives
During your stay, you may not see your normal physician every day; care is now often provided by “hospitalist providers” who are specially trained to provide treatment in the hospital. However, these providers should be in touch with your primary care doctor to update them on your condition and let them know what treatment or support you may need when you leave.
You may also see a respiratory therapist, who is trained to treat lung disease and help you manage your breathing. They can help you navigate oxygen therapy, clear mucus from your lungs, and practice breathing exercises.
Other treatments you might receive in hospital include nebulizers, inhalers, or steroids. You should always make the hospitalist provider aware of any medication or supplements you take, as well as any side effects you may be experiencing.
Preparing to Leave the Hospital
When you’re ready to leave the hospital, the most important thing is to make sure you know what you need to stay healthy and safe at home. So before you leave, remember to ask your hospitalist providers the following:
- What medicine do I need to take, and for how long?
- When should I make an appointment to see my primary care provider or other specialist?
- What symptoms should I look out for so I don’t have another exacerbation?
- Are there any other healthcare professionals that may be coming to my home? (i.e. Physical therapists, home care nurses, etc.)
If you are prescribed oxygen therapy in the hospital, you should receive instructions on when you should wear your oxygen and what setting to put it on. If you have any questions, ask your provider. To learn more about oxygen therapy, click here.
In some cases, you may not go directly home from the hospital, but to another healthcare setting. This step is intended to provide additional care while you gain your strength or manage other health issues so you can stay healthy and independent when you return home.
Transitioning from Hospital to Home
It may take you a little while to get back to your normal activities after leaving the hospital. Don’t feel discouraged if you don’t feel like your usual self right away! Practicing good COPD management will help you feel better sooner.
Firstly, it’s very important to use your medication as prescribed. You may have been given new medication or instructions from the hospital; keep track of your medications in a safe place that you can easily access and share with your provider.
You should also update your COPD Action Plan after your hospital visit with any new medications you were prescribed. For example, you may be prescribed new inhalers, steroids, or other medications listed in your “yellow zone”. You can update your plan at your first follow-up visit after your hospitalization.
If you were prescribed oxygen for the first time in hospital, the durable medical equipment (DME) company should reach out to you to make sure you have the equipment you need and know how to use it correctly. If you have any trouble connecting with your DME, you can ask your hospital social worker or pulmonologist for help. Always follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions.
What You Can Do Today
You can prepare a list of your medications and doses and put it in a safe place in case you need to go to the hospital. You can also create or update your list of allergies and emergency contacts.
If you do need to go to the hospital, know that your Wellinks care team is here to support you in your transition home and answer any questions you may have.