Preparing to Go Home

Your Medications

You will receive a list of the medications you were given while you were in the hospital. You will also receive a reconciled list of your current medications and those your doctor wants you to continue taking at home. We recommend that you review your medication lists and discard any list that is no longer accurate. If you have any questions, ask your doctor.

Discharge Planning

Clinical resource coordinators will assist you with your discharge planning needs. If you need skilled nursing care, rehabilitation, home health care and/or follow-up appointments with local agencies, arrangements can be made by a post-acute service coordinator. If you would like to talk with a clinical resource coordinator, please ask your nurse to help make the arrangements.

Leaving the Hospital

Medically stable patients will be transported from their hospital room to the Discharge Lounge. This dedicated space provides a comfortable and secure environment for patients waiting transportation. Your medications will be delivered to the lounge for your convenience.

The Discharge Lounge operates from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. Guest Services staff are available to help address any concerns. You can contact the Discharge Lounge for assistance at 304.399.7673.

Safety at Home

1. Make sure you know the name and purpose of each of the medications you will be taking at home.
2. If your doctor gives you a prescription, check to see if you can read the writing. If you cannot, the drug store may not be able to either.
3. Ask when you can resume your normal activities.
4. Make sure you understand how to perform any treatments that may be required at home.
5. If you will be using special medical equipment at home:
   • Use grounded or three-prong plugs for any electrical equipment.
   • Avoid the use of extension cords.
   • Keep oxygen equipment away from flames or heat sources.
   • Never smoke while you are using oxygen or even near oxygen.
   • Never smoke in bed.