Top tips to get right care for your older relative in hospital

When your older relative goes into hospital, it can be a very stressful time. The medical staff will ask many questions on admission, but you can help them by giving them some key information if your elderly relative is less able to do so.

Give the hospital staff the details they need to know if your relative is unable to do so

1. Take any medication your relative is taking into the hospital, so the doctors and nurses know what they are currently using and can be aware of how any further drugs might affect the current ones, or assess whether their current medication is correct
2. Please let the medical staff know of any general allergies to drugs or food or of any reactions to anaesthetic
3. Please inform the nursing staff of religious preferences and dietary requirements, if relevant
4. Let the medical staff know about any existing medical issues your relative may have, or any relevant past medical issues
5. Make the staff aware of any mobility or incontinence issues, so they are aware that extra help might be needed
6. Let the medical staff know if your older relative ever gets confused or disorientated
7. Make sure the hospital has your contact details and those of other family members if relevant. It is best to provide one main point of contact for the hospital, as they are very busy and it can be difficult if many relatives ring up regularly for updates.
8. Let the medical staff know if your relative has signed a ‘do not resuscitate’ order (DNR), in case of emergency

Don’t be afraid to ask questions

1. Doctors and nurses are busy and usually visiting times do not coincide with ward rounds, but if you are worries or want to keep updated, you can speak to the nurses on the ward in person or by phone and you can ask them to page the relevant doctor.
2. Make sure you’ve asked all the relevant questions prior to any procedure in terms of the procedure itself, how it works, the risk factors and post-operative care if relevant
3. Find out when visiting is allowed, so you can let friends and family know to avoid them visiting at the wrong time
4. If your older relative needs help with meals and drinks, ask to be allowed to be there at mealtimes to help
5. If you want to complain, read how HERE
6. Find out about the hospital discharge procedure and ensure your elderly relative will have the right care once they get home. You can read more about hospital discharge HERE