Discharge information for carers
We know how important it is for the patients we work with to be
in hospital for as little time as possible. This helps to reduce
the chance of secondary infection while allowing them to return to
a familiar environment and complete any recovery they may
need.
Throughout a patient's treatment they have an assessment of
their needs, for instance what help they may need with washing,
dressing and eating food. If it is clear they require support
in other areas a physiotherapist or occupational therapist may be
asked to assess the patient. These assessments will then form a
picture of what (if any) support the patient may need when they go
home.
If the patient has not previously had support from care workers,
a social worker will be asked to review the case, develop and
request a care package. If the patient has previously had a
care package, this may continue unchanged or may be altered
depending on the patient's level of need. The nurse in charge
of the care of the person you care for will be able to advise on
this. There may be a cost involved in providing a care package
to the person you care for and the social worker will speak with
you about this.
We understand the importance of carer involvement throughout
this time so we will endeavour to include carers throughout the
assessments detailed above and in the development of the final care
package. Carers are able to request involvement in any
assessments on the ward and to be included in any final care
package. If you no longer feel able to care, or feel you are
no longer able to care as much, it is important you tell the
nursing staff or social worker involved in the case of the person
you care for.
If you would like to access support during this time please
contact one of the carers liaison workers:
