Discharge

Discharge Planning

At Floating Hospital for Chidlren, we make every effort to ensure a smooth transition home for you and your child. Whenever possible, discharge plans begin as soon as your child is admitted. During your child’s stay, his or her physician and primary nurse will arrange for you to learn how to care for your child at home and how to provide for special needs.

Arrangements for services needed after discharge can be made by your child’s primary nurse or, when needed, by the discharge planning nurse. They will discuss with you the kind of assistance you feel is needed, what resources are available, and which services may be reimbursable by your insurer. Before discharge you will be given written instructions that include information on medications, diet, other services to be provided, follow-up health care appointments and special directions. Telephone numbers to call for questions after you are home are also provided.

Discharge

Whenever possible, your child’s discharge will be confirmed the evening before it is scheduled to occur. Your child’s physician or primary nurse will review the plans for the day of discharge and the anticipated discharge time. Please plan to leave the hospital by 10 a.m. on discharge day, and make transportation arrangements in advance to ensure a timely departure so the room can be ready for another child being admitted. Massachusetts law requires the use of child passenger restraints for children 12 years and younger in automobiles; please remember this when making transportation arrangements. Hospital staff will assist you in acquiring medications and supplies for your child, if needed.