What to Expect During a Hospital Stay & Discharge

A hospital stay can feel overwhelming — especially when you’re supporting a loved one. This in-person program will help you confidently navigate both the hospital experience and the critical transition home. Learn what to expect during a hospital stay, how to effectively advocate for your care recipient, and the right questions to ask doctors, nurses, and discharge planners. We’ll discuss practical strategies for managing medications, scheduling follow-up appointments, coordinating home health or rehabilitation services, and making necessary adjustments to the home environment. You’ll also gain insight into the connection between post-hospital care and re-hospitalizations, how to assess physical, cognitive, and environmental risk factors, and simple, actionable steps to reduce complications and improve recovery. Leave feeling prepared, informed, and empowered to support a safe and successful transition home. Presenters: Mark Crossen, LCSW; Complex Care Coordination Manager at Northside Hospital System Mary Wilkie, BSW; Care Coordination Operations Manager at Northside Hospital Cherokee