It is very easy to overlook and forget to acknowledge the involvement of this nurse at the time of discharge. The details, planning, and accuracy-related to my discharge required the ability to stay focused, multitask and above all, coordinate. After a four-week hospital stay resulting from an emergency tracheostomy, the day of discharge arrived.
I was discharged with a trach tube and a peg feeding tube and a very limited ability to speak. I live alone but I insisted I be released to home. To say that my life had changed dramatically is certainly an understatement.
The coordination of trach supplies, feeding essentials, visiting nurses, respiratory therapists, future doctor appointments and consulting with hospital social services was of the utmost importance.
The arrival of supplies along with the precise arrival of the respiratory therapist had a significant impact on my ability to sustain once I arrived home.
This nurse's perfect coordination could not have been any more accurate. The supplies arrived at my home one hour before I did. The respiratory therapist greeted me as I arrived home. All of the pieces fell into place.
Detailed coordination such as this takes time, diligence, persistence and a strong work ethic. In coordinating my discharge, this nurse also ensured all coding was in agreement with my insurance to prevent any surprise bills for me. In addition, and at my request, this nurse continued to keep my family informed and updated. A few times during the month following discharge, some questions arose. I turned to her for answers and direction and she was pleased to help. More importantly, she was concerned about how I was doing.
Patricia handled a very involved assignment with ease. She assured me and my family and eliminated worry.