PREPARING TO LEAVE

Discharge

The day you leave is called “discharge.” Before you leave, nurses will go over what you need to know about care.

Things to think about: 

• On the day of your discharge, please have your transportation available by 11 a.m. 
• Consider having someone with you the first 24 hours. 
• Stock up on easy-to-make foods. 
• Know whom to call in case of an emergency. 
• Plan how you'll get to your next doctor visit. 
• Arrange enough help so caregivers can get a break. 
• Please ask for any items you stored in our safe.
   

Understand your medications 

• Make sure you know what medications you need to take and any you may need to stop taking. 
• Take all medications as directed. Know what to do if you miss a dose.
• Don’t stop taking your medications unless your doctor tells you to, even if you are feeling better.
   

When to call your doctor

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath 
• Lasting nausea, vomiting or diarrhea 
• Excessive bleeding or drainage at the site of your operation 
• Rash, bruising or yellow skin 
• Fever or chills 
• Pain that is not relieved by pain medications 
• Other concerns that need immediate attention