Managing an unexpected hospital stay

Getting patients out of bed, dressed in their own clothes and walking helps them feel stronger, and recover more quickly. They are less likely to fall.

To help this happen the NMDHB encourages the family of patients aged 50 or older coming into hospital, either planned or by ambulance from home or agedcare residences, to bring in suitable clothing and well-fitting shoes.

Well-fitting shoes or sandals (or even bare feet) are more effective than the anti-slip red socks. With suitable clothing and shoes, patients can get up, get dressed, get active and are less likely to fall.

A brochure on managing an unexpected hospital stay has been produced. This lets wha¯nau know what they should bring in to hospital.

St John staff are giving the brochure to family members of patients being transported and it is also available in ED and MAPU in Nelson Hospital, and in ED in Wairau Hospital.

Families know they can help their loved one feel better, more independent and mobile by bringing in a change of clothes, well-fitting walking shoes, sandals or slippers (which are easy to put on) and also to support them to get up, get dressed and, with support, back into walking.

Packing advice for wha¯nau:

■ Light fitting clothes for a couple of days and a bag for laundry

(plus someone to do the laundry). ■ Good fitting shoes, sandals, or slippers to help avoid a fall.

■ Daily toiletries, moisturiser and lip balm to protect skin and lips.

■ Glasses, hearing aids (and the case) with spare batteries.

■ Pack all medicines in a container and include health aids: CPAP, inhalers, walking aids. Yellow medicine card if current.

■ Keep jewellery and valuables at home (wedding ring or pounamu are okay). Small amount of cash only. The hospital does not accept responsibility for their security.

■ Cell phone and charger to stay in touch. Ear buds or headphones in consideration of other patients. ■ Reading material, iPad, tablet, laptop and charger.

For more information, visit https:/ /www.nmdhb.govt.nz/patientsand-visitors/preparing-fora-hospital-visit-or-stay/what-tobring-to-hospital/