Going Home
How long someone stays at RHCI depends on the patient’s reason for admission and general condition. Patients receiving rehabilitation following certain surgeries, for example, may be ready to go home in a week or less. Someone recovering from a serious stroke or motor vehicle accident may require rehabilitation for a longer period of time. In 2007, the average length of stay was 14 days.
As the patient improves, our staff will accelerate the rehabilitation process so that patients may return to their homes and loved ones as soon as possible. The Patient Care Coordinator and other team members work with the patient and family to ensure a smooth transition home.
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Family education is an important part of rehabilitation. We encourage family members to participate in patient care conferences and therapy sessions so they may learn how to support and assist their loved one.
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RHCI’s Functional Living Apartment provides a safe environment within the hospital where the patient and family member or caregiver can stay overnight as practice for returning home.
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Therapists may visit the patient’s home before discharge and make recommendations to enhance the safety and accessibility of the home environment.
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The patient care coordinator will identify and arrange any additional services (such as visiting nurse, home therapy, outpatient therapy, Meals on Wheels, or other community resources) that may be needed once the patient has returned home.
