Hospitalizing your loved one is a heart-wrenching, hand-wringing, complicated event. On one hand, you are desperate for them to get treated (properly…a blog for another day). On the other hand, it is a dynamic that most of us are not familiar with. And, in fact, when a loved one (LO) with mental illness is hospitalized, it presents a unique opportunity to jumpstart their treatment and recovery. However, navigating the healthcare system can be challenging. This guide offers key strategies for caregivers to maximize their LO’s hospital stay and ensure the best possible outcomes.
Engage with the Hospital Case Manager
The hospital case manager is your most important ally during your LO’s hospitalization. As soon as your LO is admitted, contact the case manager to discuss next steps. Whether the stay is brief or extended, maintaining close communication with this professional is crucial.
Research supports the importance of case managers in coordinating care. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that case management interventions reduced hospital readmissions by 32% for patients with mental illness[1].
Provide Comprehensive Information
Start faxing or securely sending the hospital specific information about your LO. This should include:
- Mental health history
- Previous treatments and their effectiveness
- Current medications
- Any recent changes in behavior or symptoms
Providing a full picture helps the treatment team understand your LO’s unique needs. The American Case Management Association emphasizes the importance of comprehensive assessments in developing effective care plans[2].
Advocate for Appropriate Care
Don’t hesitate to push back if you disagree with the treatment plan or discharge timeline. Your long-term knowledge of your LO is invaluable. If doctors suggest a discharge after two days, but you believe two weeks are necessary, voice your concerns.
A study in the Psychiatric Services journal found that family involvement in treatment decisions led to better outcomes for patients with severe mental illness[3].
Ensure Legal Authorization
To engage openly with the treatment team, you should have legal authorization in place. This could be in the form of:
- Healthcare power of attorney
- HIPAA authorization form
- Advance directive
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) provides resources on obtaining these authorizations[4].
Collaborate with the Treatment Team
Work closely with doctors, nurses, and social workers. Attend team meetings when possible and ask questions about:
- Diagnosis
- Treatment options
- Medication changes
- Discharge planning
A review in the Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing found that collaborative care models involving family members improved patient outcomes[5].
Plan for Discharge
Start planning for discharge early. Discuss with the case manager:
- Follow-up appointments
- Medication management
- Community resources
- Crisis plans
The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality recommends early discharge planning to reduce readmissions and improve patient outcomes[6].
Hospital stays, while often stressful, can be pivotal moments in your LO’s treatment journey. By engaging actively with the hospital team, providing comprehensive information, advocating for appropriate care, and planning for discharge, you can help ensure that your LO receives the best possible care and support.
Remember, you are an essential part of your LO’s care team. Your knowledge, advocacy, and involvement can make a significant difference in their recovery journey. For even more tips, check out my book on Amazon which goes into more depth on all these points! Schizophrenia and Other Related Disorders. Handbook For Caretakers
Citations:
[1] https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-does-a-case-manager-do-1738560
[3] https://brooksrehab.org/blog/what-role-do-case-managers-play-in-patient-care/
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9335426/
[5] https://www.uagc.edu/blog/what-case-manager
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