I am a Carer: Checklist – Leaving the hospital

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The following is a checklist to make sure you have all the information you need:

• does the person I am caring for have a copy of the discharge letter/plan? – If not, speak to the named nurse or the hospital social worker if they are already involved.
  
• does the person I am caring for and, with their consent, do I, as their carer, have information on the services they will receive on leaving hospital? – If not, speak to the named nurse or hospital social worker.
  
• the person you care for may have to pay towards the services provided. Has this been discussed? – If not, speak to the hospital social worker about a financial assessment. The Western Isles Community Care Forum or Citizens Advice Bureau can also offer support.
  
• if you are the carer and going into hospital… what advice/assistance is available? It is important to make sure that the correct support and services are put in to place to support you as the carer and the cared for person.

By the time someone leaves hospital they should know:

• how to contact relevant services
• what treatment will be provided
• what services will be provided and when and the cost of these
• how to use any equipment needed
• what, how, and when their medication will be given.

If required, the person you care for may be referred to the Short Term Assessment and Re-ablement Team (START) for assessment. The START team consists of:

• Reablement support workers
• Care and Support Supervisors
• Occupational Therapists
• Physiotherapist

Reablement can be provided on average for six weeks and your level of support will be adjusted to suit your particular needs. Patients and carers will be supported through their discharge by their ward's Senior Charge Nurse. If you have worries about them going home please tell the Senior Charge Nurse.