Do you have a child going off to college or moving away? Remember, just because you pay their bills, doesn’t mean you have the right to make their medical decisions for them, even if they can’t speak for themselves. Do you want to know why they are hospitalized following an accident or injury, or what the diagnosis and care plan are? You can’t, unless it’s in writing. Your children, when they become adults, should document their wishes. If they want you involved, they need to let you know, in writing. There’s a form for that!
Find it here.
And on that subject, plan ahead and be sure your child, when leaving home has their medical history and the family’s medical history. This is a good start.
Find it here.
Have you seen the resources we offer on the Pulse website? If you haven’t looked lately, maybe now is a good time to re-acquaint yourself:
The Patient Assistant Guide This list of information should be helpful if you accompany a patient to the hospital as a professional advocate, or as a friend or family member.
When visiting someone in the hospital or nursing home, the Story Board is a good way to help people who are hospitalized share information about themselves. Its also a great way to get to know someone. And don’t forget to print and bring photos of them in better times to hang around the room. Playing with their dog, dancing with friends or with family.
Are you in search of a home care agency? This chart may be helpful in your search.
Have something we should add? We are always happy to review ideas.
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