Preparing to return home from hospital

Preparing to return home safely all starts with you having a discusson with a nurse about how you might cope when you get home.

Depending on your needs and what support you have, the nurse may then ask a member of Adult Services staff to carry out an assessment, with your consent, of your care needs and see if you are eligible for help from Adult Services.

If you have particular care needs identified in your assessment, the social worker will discuss with you what services could be available to you when you return home and discuss any possible financial contributions you might need to make.

Once your likely discharge date has been agreed, your social worker will ensure that care services start as soon as you get home. You will be contacted again, once you have settled, to see how you are and discuss any ongoing suport you may need.

While you are still in hospital, remember to discuss your medication and any changes with the hospital staff. You may want to ask for any changes to be written down. If you need medication, the ward staff wil provide you with a few days supply to take home with you.

It is not necessary for everyone to see a social worker and you may be feeling confident about returning home. However there is practical advice and support for independent living on the staying at home web pages.