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Hospital wards

Being transferred to the hospital ward can be a real mixed bag of emotions for patients and families. While ward transfer is a sign of improvement and a step closer to going home, patients and families have to adjust to less monitoring and having fewer staff at close hand. 

Some patients "come to" on the wards, and have to begin to try to make sense of what has happened to them. Common psychological issues include strange dreams, problems sleeping or feeling anxious or low. Patients also become more aware of physical issues such as general weakness, tiredness, mobility problems, etc as they begin to do more for themselves.

In this section, we've provided some general information and advice on common physical and psychological issues issues during the ward stage of recovery, the types of staff involved in your care (who they are and what they do) and what to expect in terms of getting you home. We've also included sections on other people's experiences and frequently asked questions. We hope you find it helpful.

 

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Web Link: Anticipatory care-planning ahead

This link will take you to Healthcare Improvement Scotland's webpages on "anticipatory care". Anticipatory Care Planning is a "thinking ahead" approach in which healthcare professionals work together with patients and their families (or carers) to make sure that care is coordinated. It can be really helpful for people who have complicated care needs. You can print off a booklet from the website, or download a free app. There are some short videos of...

Web Link: A-Z of health conditions

Many people who come into Intensive Care have pre-existing health conditions. Part of your recovery will likely include understanding and dealing with those conditions too. This link will take you to an NHS page with information on 100's of conditions, symptoms and treatments. It's not exhaustive, but we hope you find it helpful.

External Video: Bob describes his experience on the ward

In this video clip, Bob (a former Intensive Care patient) talks about his recovery on the general wards, after being transferred out of Intensive Care.

External Video: Bob describes his experience on the ward

In this video clip, Bob (a former Intensive Care patient) talks about his recovery on the general wards, after being transferred out of Intensive Care.

Document: Confusion (delirium) and Intensive Care

This is a short, easy to read booklet written by ICUSteps.It explains what delirium is, why patients in Intensive Care are often confused, what it feels like for the patient and the things family members can do to help.Some patients continue to be a little confused after they are transferred to the general wards, although this is usually temporary.

External Video: George's experiences of ward care

In this video, George talks about his experiences of care on the wards after Intensive Care. He also talks about his experiences of discharge planning.

Web Link: Hospital discharge planning-what to expect

Patients should be fully involved in planning for going home and should be kept informed of any changes. Each hospital has its own policy and arrangements for discharging patients. Nevertheless, there are often standards of care and information that must be met for patients and their family members. Going gome from hospital can, and often does, involve a number of different health and social care professionals, and it’s a good idea to know who is involved in arranging your discharge...

Web Link: If someone dies: registering a death in Scotland

Sadly,not everyone survives Intensive Care. We are very sorry for your loss. This link takes you to the website of the General Register Office for Scotland.It provides information on how to register a death in Scotland.

Web Link: Making a complaint: Patient Advice and Support Service

This link will take you to the webpage of the Patient Advice and Support Service. They offer free,confidential & independent advice & support for NHS patients in Scotland, and are linked with the Citizens Advice Bureau. You can find out more about your rights and responsibilities, and provide practical and emotional support.You can call them free on 0800 917 2127 or chat to someone either online or in person at your nearest Citizens Advice Support. They can  Help you to give feedback...

Article: Managing breathlessness

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