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Hospitalization is certainly not one of the most pleasant things. However, by properly preparing for it, you can save a lot of stress. Therefore, see what is worth paying special attention to before a planned hospital stay.
How to prepare for hospitalization – choosing a hospital
In the case of planned hospital treatment, you can choose the facility you want to use. You can choose from the outlets they have signed contract with the National Health Fund for the provision of healthcare services. There is no zoning in hospitals. However, remember that the hospital is not obliged to admit every patient, for example in a situation where there are no vacancies at the moment. The hospital cannot refuse to help the patient only in a life-threatening emergency.
The seven most important rules when registering in a medical institution – you need to know them!
How to prepare for hospitalization – referral
If you have already chosen a hospital, remember to register your referral. Report to the selected facility. You will then be put on the waiting list. In the letter you will find the following information:
- qualification to a specific medical category, in accordance with the adopted medical criteria,
- the time limit for the provision of a medical service with a justification for such and not another date.
The original of the referral to the hospital should be delivered to the facility within 14 days of registration. Before you come to the emergency room, make sure you have a copy of your medical records. Read also the organizational regulations of the facility and patient’s rights. This way you will find out what the plan for the day in the ward looks like, meal times and visits.
Also, see how electronic referral works and how to use it
How to prepare for hospitalization – what to take to the hospital?
Take a bottle of water with you when going to the hospital. If you can, buy a bottle every day or ask someone to do it. This way you will avoid dehydration. Drink water in small sips throughout the day. Provided that the doctor does not prohibit you from taking fluids yourself. Also, try not to stress.
Make yourself at home in the hospital. Thanks to this, you will recover faster. Remember your favorite egg. You can also put a photo, picture or postcard next to the bed. It will definitely improve your mood. Take your favorite books with you. They will make your time enjoyable and at least take you away from unpleasant thoughts.
By preparing for hospitalization, you can save yourself unnecessary nerves. Take it all with you medical recordsincluding the results of previous studies. Make a list of the medications you are taking and how to dose them. Thanks to this, the attending physician can quickly check the course of treatment to date. It is also worth remembering:
- comfortable clothes and a warm sweater or sweatshirt,
- a bathrobe, pajamas or nightgown,
- change of shoes (slippers or flip flops)
- towels
- personal hygiene items (soap or shower gel, shampoo, toothbrush and toothpaste) and toiletries,
- underwear,
- phone and charger.
However, do not take valuables such as jewelry or watches. You can put your personal belongings in the locker next to the bed. In addition, bring an ID with a photo and PESEL number. Your employer’s tax identification number (NIP) may also be useful.
How to prepare for hospitalization – discharge from the hospital
When you leave the hospital, you will be given a discharge. It should contain the most important information related to your stay in the ward, incl. list of tests with results, post-hospital recommendations, applied treatment and performed procedures. It is therefore an extremely important source of information. It will help you choose the method of further treatment.
Also read how to find a free appointment to a specialist doctor?
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