Discharge Instructions & Guidelines
The following section will help you prepare for discharge by knowing what to expect, who to call, and how to keep yourself safe and free from infection.
What to Expect on Clinic Days
· Once you are discharged from the inpatient unit you will return to the clinic every day for lab work. Depending on your lab test results you may need blood products, extra fluids, or electrolyte replacement. The length of time you will spend in the clinic cannot be estimated until your test results come back and your needs are assessed. However, be prepared to spend a good part of the day in the clinic. As your blood work gradually improves over the coming weeks, you will have days off between clinic visits.
· Upon arrival to the clinic, you will have blood drawn for testing. You will have a nurse assigned to you each day you are in clinic. Your nurse will let you know when your lab results are back and give you a copy of the lab report if you like.
· Please report directly to the front desk if you or a family member has new upper respiratory symptoms, fever, nausea with vomiting or diarrhea. You may need to be isolated in a private room for these conditions.
· You will meet with a nurse practitioner or physician on a weekly basis. Your progress and plan of care will be reviewed by all members of the treatment team each day that you are in clinic.
· You may want to bring a book, magazine, laptop computer, or other form of entertainment to help pass the time. Some people will pass the time talking or sleeping. Patients often find that other patients are a great support system as they undergo the process of recovery.
· Space is limited in the clinic treatment room. One family member at a time may visit in the treatment room as space allows. There is a large family lounge located outside of the clinic near the elevators and rest rooms outfitted with a television and water & ice machine.
· Pack a lunch, snacks, and something to drink. A small cooler or insulated lunch bag may be useful. Wear comfortable clothes and bring a sweater if you are subject to being cold.
· Bring your day’s oral medications and any IV medications with you along with your most recent medication schedule. Please bring your Patient Education Manual with you.
· Make a list of questions that may come up at home and bring them with you to discuss with the nurses or doctors.
Who to Contact When Medical Problems Occur
Please call 828-4360 to contact a nurse or leave a message. Follow the prompts for the department you wish to contact.
To reach the clinic menu directly you may call 628-1169 and follow prompts.
Please refer to the “Quick Reference Guide of Symptoms” on the following page. This will help you decide if you need to call for help immediately or if it can wait until morning. When in doubt, CALL.
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VCUHS BMT Program 11/08- Revised 5/13