Your Caregivers

Hospitalists

A hospitalist is a physician who specialized in patients in the hospital. Our hospitalists will be your doctor while you are at Hammond-Henry Hospital. The hospitalists will communicate with your primary care provider. Unlike your primary care provider who would only be available maybe once a day, the hospitalists is always on hand and ready to address patient needs. This allows for patients to have a physician available to focus on their current conditions. The hospitalists is in charge of your care during your stay. He or she will order your examinations, medications, treatments, tests and special diet, if needed.

 

Nursing

Nursing care may be provided by registered nurses (RN), licensed practical nurses (LPN) and/or certified nursing assistants (CNA). Registered nurses and licensed practical nurses can give medications, treatments and perform dressing changes. They will also communicate with the hospitalists and family regarding any significant change in your condition or emotional status. They will also notify your family of any personal needs you may have or if it is necessary to transfer you from one room or nursing unit to another. Nursing staff can assist with activities of daily living including bathing, dressing, eating, walking, exercising and toileting. You are encouraged to do as much for yourself as possible as part of restorative therapy, but the staff is available whenever the need arises.

 

Pharmacists

All medications will be ordered by the hospitalists and dispensed by the hospital pharmacist to nursing personnel. If you are a Medicare beneficiary, Medicare Part B will not cover self-administered drugs while you are in observation status. You may be billed for these services. Families are advised not to bring any medications to the patient including over-the-counter and herbal remedies. Please remember these important factors:

  • Tell the hospitalists you want to know the names of each medication and the reasons you are taking them.
  • Look at all medications before taking them.
  • Do not let anyone give you medications without checking your hospital ID bracelet every time.
  • Ask before any test or procedure or if any dyes or medications are required. Remind your nurse and/or hospitalists if you have allergies.
  • Have the hospitalist, nurse, or pharmacist go over your home medications and any new prescription when you are ready for discharge.

 

Social Services

A social worker will assist you with your plans to return home or to an alternative setting. The social worker will work with your care team to coordinate your care and ensure a smooth transition. They will also assist you with understanding advance directives, Medicare coverage, and financial assistance. Help is available for any emotional difficulties you may experience.


Dietitian/Nutritionist

Wholesome, nourishing , well-balanced meals are an important part of your treatment and recovery. Hammond-Henry Hospital makes every effort to provide nutritious meals that are prepared according to your primary care provider’s orders.

 

Meal times are as follows:

Breakfast:              7 a.m. – 8 a.m.

Lunch:                 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Dinner:                  4 p.m. – 5 p.m.

 

Occasionally, your meal may be delayed due to a scheduled special test or procedure. Whenever possible, your meal will be served after your procedure.

Your breakfast tray will include a menu from which you may order your next day’s meals. Please mark your menu so it will be ready for pickup. If you have difficulty making menu selections, a member of the nutritional services department or your nurse will be happy to assist you. If you are on a special diet prescribed by your doctor, you will receive menus tailored to your specific needs.

A registered dietitian is available to discuss your diet, answer questions and address any special requests. Please call extension 1404 if you would like to speak with a dietitian.

 

Occupational Therapist

The goal of occupational therapy is to advance you to optimal independence in performing activities of daily living. Your occupational therapist (OT) will utilize a variety of therapeutic interventions promoting independence in dressing, bathing, toileting, homemaking, and use of safety and adaptive equipment. Additionally, your OT may ask questions regarding your living environment to provide recommendations that support independence and safety at home.

 

Physical Therapist

The goal of physical therapy (PT) is to restore you to an optimal level of functional mobility and endurance. Your physical therapist will utilize a variety of interventions to improve your ability to walk, transfer in and out of bed, and negotiate stairs.  PTs also enhance balance and strength and teach strategies to prevent falls and improve safety.  Your PT will also recommend an adaptive device for increased mobility and safety such as a walker or cane should you need one.

 

Speech Therapist

The goal of speech therapy is to restore your communication skills and improve swallowing abilities that may occur as a result of neurological deficits, stroke, head injury or developmental delays. Your speech therapist may also be involved in enhancing cognitive deficits such as memory loss, decreased orientation and problem-solving skills that decrease your ability to complete daily activities. 

At the time of your discharge, your rehabilitation team will follow up with recommendations for assistive devices and safety/adaptive equipment to facilitate your independence and safety at home. Your therapist may also recommend continued therapy in your home or on an outpatient basis to further direct you in achieving your rehabilitation goals.