Hospitalization-terrifying, but bearable

There are many reasons for hospitalization, very few are pleasant.  I hope this quick tip guide will help you get through it more smoothly.

Emergency Room-Most of you already know this, but ER's are required to screen and stabilize you, even if you can't pay or don't have insurance.  You can read more about this at http://www.hhnmag.com/hhnmag/HHNDaily/HHNDailyDisplay.dhtml?id=4770007463 

Hospital Stays:
Recovery from Surgery-You will often remain in the recovery area until the anesthesia has worn off.  If it is a day surgery, some hospitals will (unfortunately) release you before this is the case.  You and your loved ones have the right to request further observation and care, until you feel comfortable enough to go home.

If you are kept overnight, I suggest that you have someone there with you, as hospital stays can quite often involve some heavy duty painkillers. Allies are awesome.  Good hospitals will provide a "sleeping chair" if your loved one wishes to stay through the night.  Don't be afraid to ask.

The call button is there for a reason.  Don't be afraid to push it if you are in pain, thirsty, stuck in a strange position, have to pee-whatever ails you.  Don't allow yourself to be ignored.  You will recover faster if you are comfortable. 

If you are placed in a room with a person who is recovering from a contagious disease, you CAN demand to be placed in a different room.  Your body will be in a weakened state, and this kind of exposure can lead to a number of Hospital Acquired Infections. 

Being ignored?  Not okay.  Hospital workers are on overload, but it is their job to make sure you're taken care of.  A night in a hospital can be and often is equivalent or higher cost than a luxury hotel.  You pay this so that you are monitored, cared for and under supervision.  There can be delays, but if they are ridiculously long, tell the nurse you want to speak to a Patient Advocate.  Patient Advocates are there to protect the hospital from malpractice suits (truly, that's a big one) and this means better care for you.

Don't be bullied.  Does morphine give you a headache?  Ask for an alternative.  Remember, personal empowerment in the healthcare setting can mean the difference between life and death. If they ignore your concerns, demand to see the Charge Nurse, Physician on Call, or a Patient Advocate.