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Hospitalization: What You Need to Know
Those who are seriously ill with depression are at high risk for suicide.
Hospitalization alone does not prevent that possibility. It takes time for
medication and therapy to take effect and for recovery to begin. The involvement
and advocacy of family and friends is an important and appropriate part of the
treatment plan. The following suggestions provide a guideline for working with a
treatment facility when a loved one is undergoing treatment for depression.
At Admission
What is the policy on involving family members with the patient's care
and availability of staff to answer questions?
Printed sheets that promise classes, sessions, etc. without a definite date
or appointment specified to meet with a supervisor, nurse or doctor are of
little or no use. Set up an appointment, and obtain a name and phone number of
someone who will be available to answer your questions throughout the duration
of treatment. After a patient is safely admitted, don't leave the area until you
are satisfied that all of your questions and concerns are answered and you have
established a contact person who will be able to answer any additional questions
that arise. Ask the doctor or your contact what the treatment plan is, what has
to change in the patient's attitude, behavior, and physical characteristics
before he or she is discharged, and any additional questions you have regarding
the patient's care and treatment plan.
During Treatment
What, if any, is your role and how can you assist the patient in this
process?
If you have questions or disagree with any decisions at any time, it's very
important you discuss them with the doctor. You know the patient better than the
doctor and staff, and may be able to shed light on important issues. Patients
may not recognize behavior changes because they're ill; the doctor and staff may
not recognize differences, especially if they're not familiar with the patient.
You are the best person to observe and state anything you are concerned about.
Don't be afraid to ask specific questions about how the patient's treatment is
progressing, i.e. is the patient participating in group or individual therapy,
or both; is he with students, interns, registered nurses, practical nurses,
doctors, etc. Find out the actual amount of time the doctor is spending with the
patient. This may determine the quality and value of care the patient is
receiving.
Keep in mind the facility may not be capable of meeting all the patient's needs.
As a person close to the patient, you can advocate for appropriate services. The
ultimate hope is that she'll be provided the best chance of becoming healthy,
thereby regaining the ability to make decisions in her own best interest.
Upon Discharge
Some treatment facilities have a release or discharge meeting with the
staff, patient and significant others. Some do not.
You can insist on a discharge meeting to determine if the patient is ready to
leave and if he is healthy enough to manage his own care, or is able to obtain
care from some other source. A continuing treatment plan is a necessity. In
addition, if there is a difference between the planned and actual discharge, ask
the doctor to review any changes in the patient during that time. (Even a few
hours can present situations that would preclude discharge). Ask the doctor how
the decision to discharge is made, and voice your concerns if you disagree with
the decision. Check with the patient to see if written goals have been
established. You can help the patient arrive at some constructive short-term
goals for solving specific problems. Your interest will show the person you
care. The patient should have specific goals in writing before leaving the
treatment facility. Help locate and evaluate outside resources such as
ministers, relatives and friends who can help in the recovery process.
Continuing observation and support are vital, and follow-up is crucial to ensure
a successful recovery.
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