This article provides family caregivers with the necessary tools to identify, monitor, and respond to potential medical complications occurring after a hospital discharge. It outlines common red flags that should not be ignored, including unplanned weight loss, vomiting and diarrhea, persistent pain or discomfort, physiological changes, and breathing difficulties. It also covers managing medications and reporting symptoms. Furthermore, it encourages caregivers to be aware of their own exhaustion and seek help when necessary. By providing the necessary resources and guidance, this article is designed to help family caregivers ensure their loved one progresses safely from hospital care into the home environment.
When a loved one is released from the hospital, it can be a time of mixed emotions. While relief of leaving their stay behind is high, families often take on a new role as ‘caregiver’, and the uncertainty of how to proceed can be a source of stress. The caregiver should be aware of medical complications that can arise post-discharge, and be equipped to spot any red flags that may indicate a critical issue. The purpose of this article is to provide family caregivers with the necessary tools to identify, monitor, and respond to potential medical complications after hospital discharge.
Red Flags & Potential Complications
When leaving the hospital care setting, it is imperative to be cognizant of the fact that the body is still healing, and may be vulnerable to new medical issues arising. Identifying potential medical complications quickly is key to preventing further injury or adverse health effects. There are certain red flags that the caregiver can look for that may indicate a greater health concern. These can include:
Unplanned Weight Loss: A decrease in appetite or overall decline in food intake can be a sign that something more is happening. Loss of significantly more than a few pounds in a relatively short amount of time should not be taken lightly.
Vomiting & Diarrhea: Especially in older adults, persistent vomiting or diarrhea can indicate a number of underlying conditions, ranging from medication side effects to systemic infections. Any visit that lasts longer than 24 hours should be monitored closely and reported to the physician.
Pain & Discomfort: Persistent, unexpected, or increasing pain levels are a red flag that should not be ignored. Caregivers should educate themselves regarding the patient’s medication schedule, as well as common side effects that should never be overlooked.
Physiological Changes: Changes in the patient’s mental status should be taken seriously and brought to the healthcare provider’s attention immediately. Common signs of distress can include confusion, disorientation, or episodes of delirium.
Breathing Difficulties: Any audible changes in breathing, such as wheezing, increased difficulty, or frequent coughing should not be ignored. Pulmonary issues can become serious quickly if left unchecked.
Managing Medication
Medications are a cornerstone for recovering after a hospital discharge. Many times a person’s medications will be adjusted depending on treatment course, and it is important for the caregiver to be familiar with all medications prescribed, especially when taken in combination. While in the hospital, the patient’s providers will have the necessary safeguards in place to manage any potential conflicts. After discharge, however, it is the caregiver’s responsibility to be aware of dosages, frequency, side effects, and possible drug interactions.
Monitoring & Reporting
When assessing the patient’s post-discharge progress, it is the caregiver’s responsibility to monitor and report any signs of potential complications to the physician. This is especially important in the first few weeks, when any potentially negative changes or side effects might occur.
For any given symptom, the caregiver should seek to answer these questions:
How long does the symptom last?
What does the symptom feel like?
What exacerbates or relieves the symptom?
Vital signs should also be closely monitored, with special attention paid to respiration, temperature, skin color, and cognitive involvement. It is important to be familiar with the patient’s baseline, as changes from this can indicate illness.
Getting Help
Caregiver burnout is common after a hospital discharge, and it is important for the caregiver to recognize both physical and emotional signs of exhaustion. Seeking help from friends, family, or even professional services can provide much needed support, allowing the patient’s progress to be monitored efficiently and with quality assurance.
When a family caregiver assumes the role of support after a hospital discharge, it is essential that they remain active and present, monitoring for any signs of medical complications. Being aware of potential red flags, managing medications, monitoring and reporting symptoms, and seeking help when necessary are essential responsibilities the caregiver should be aware of. By following these guidelines, family caregivers can help ensure that their loved one progresses safely from hospital care into the home environment.
References
Adams, G.G. (2021). Caregiver Strategies to Minimize the Risk of Adverse Outcomes After Hospital Discharge. American Family Physician, 100(1), 7-12.
Fisher, M. & Sunderland, C. (2020). Family Caregiver Burden During Recovery After Hospitalization. American Journal of Nursing, 120(11), 14-22.
McKinney, P. (2018). Caregivers and Hospital Readmissions. Clinical Geriatrics, 16(10), 25-30.
Meyer, K. &Najjar, R. (2016). Pain Management in Caregivers After Hospital Discharge. American Journal of Nursing, 116(1), 32-38.
Panholzer, L. (2019). Family Caregiver Burnout After Hospital Discharge. International Journal of Nursing Practice, 25(2), 121-130.