If you or your loved one is admitted to the hospital for any reason, make sure to keep these questions in mind. These questions are meant to clarify the medical status of the patient, gain information and understand the care needed after a procedure. This will ensure peace of mind for all.
This checklist of questions is aimed to streamline the hospitalization process and make it a comfortable experience for patients and their caregivers. Consider having a family member or friend with you who can act as your guardian during your hospitalization.
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Why am I here?
This may sound like a very basic question but is one that is often unasked. A patient may be admitted due to several reasons (emergency, scheduled surgery, etc.) and it’s important to get the facts on grounds for current admission. Check if there is a new diagnosis or complications related to other medical issues.
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What is my prognosis?
This simple but relevant question that helps gauge the health status of the medical condition. It may be a question many patients avoid in fear of receiving an unfavorable response. Ask how you are responding to treatment, progress of your condition and risks/benefits of treatment. In case, you need surgery, make sure to read and understand the consent form before signing it.
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What are my options?
If surgery is recommended, understand why you need it and what it entails. Check who will perform the surgery, kind of anesthesia needed and all possible complications involved. Ask about alternatives to surgery, and options for a second opinion.
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What is the name of my attending doctor and Head Nurse?
In a hospital, several doctors and nurses get rotated through the day and may visit you. It is thus essential to know your primary doctor and the team that is responsible for your care. In case of any questions about your care, you know who to approach.
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What will my insurance cover?
The hospital social worker, billing staff or your medical claim representative can all check your insurance policy and inform you how much coverage you have and how much you will need to pay. It is best to carry your insurance card with you for easy access. Don’t hesitate to question any tests, type of room and billed items on your claim.
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What about my medications?
This is extremely important in many aspects. At the time of admission, make sure your doctor is aware of all your current medications, so that they may be continued through your stay. It also avoids any counter effects with new medications that you may require during your hospitalization.
After The Procedure
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Did anything go wrong?
Post-surgery, make sure to ask if the operation went as planned and if there were any
complications that you need to be aware of. This will also determine your prognosis and next
plan of treatment.
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What care/ therapy do I need now?
If you have been prescribed any exercises or self-care such as changing dressing, taking an injection etc., make sure to ask the staff to show you how to do it. Practicing in front of them, can help correct any mistakes.
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What kind of help can I get when I leave the hospital?
If you need help with transportation, dressing, exercises, bathing etc, make sure to ask for home-care providers so it can be arranged before you leave the hospital. In case of required equipment (walker, slings, wheelchair, oxygen tank, health monitors etc.), ask for assistance in getting these items before you reach home.
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Do I need to make any dietary changes?
Make sure you are aware of any diet changes that have been prescribed by your doctor, so that you may follow them during your stay and after.
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How active do I need to be?
This is especially important to know how much to exercise, what kind of exercises are okay for you and how much rest you need. Also don’t be shy to ask if you are allowed to have sex, resume work, continue any strenuous activities etc. Don’t forget to ask about duration of rest and exercise required.
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How can I get copies of my tests and file?
Make sure you acquire records of all your tests (paper and electronic), your medical file and discharge letter before you leave the hospital.
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Do I need to come back?
Check if you are need any follow-up appointments or testing. If yes, then you can schedule it before you leave.
