What is the hospital responsibility when releasing an elderly patient?
My 78-year-old mother was taken to ER after falling at home. Hospital released her at 11 p.m. but she had no ride home. We were told by her dr. to not get her after she is discharged so that she can be placed into a nursing home. However, a stranger hosp employee drove her home at 11 p.m. and in dense fog. Mom lives in the country in Illinois. Took mom inside and left. Mom was still in her hosp gown. My niece was asleep in the house. Mom cannot be left alone. She fell twice after she got home. Why would the hosp have a stranger drive an elderly pt home, not knowing the conditions of the home (elec could be shut off, etc.) not to mention a total stranger!!! Since her dr gave us specific instructions to not get her after being discharged, I cannot understand why this happened. Should I contact a lawyer?
What kind of things might I be doing at nursing home orientation?
Orientation for any nursing home position is a lengthy process due to many reasons, legally, safety, informative. In my experience the general orientation day covers: Paperwork, I-9, W-4, direct deposit forms, (if applicable insurance) Welcome to the company DVD, with informative information about the company processes, procedures, payday, and general information about the corporation. HIPPA inservice, a DVD, and test on the importance of HIPPA. Safety and fire safety with the Maintenance Director and a tour of the building to show evacuation procedures, exits, shut off valves, etc. Bloodborne pathogen/bodily fluids cleanup procedures and processes. Scheduling, shifts, monthly meeting dates, etc. I hope this helps, good luck to you!
What happens if a patient leaves the hospital without being discharged?
If you just leave without signing an AMA (against medical advice), the doctor is called and your leaving is documented. Your insurance coverage will typically be denied, and you will be responsible for whatever consequences occur. Your doctor will no longer be obligated to treat you. Patients whose rights have been challenged due to mental or legal issues may be captured and handled by the police and restrained in a mental ward or in police custody, and may only receive treatment that is legally sanctioned according to the circumstances such as mental competency issues as opposed to criminal incarceration. When criminals are hospitalized for injuries such as gunshot wounds, a police officer is typically assigned to stand guard, and hospital personnel would not intervene if the patient tried to escape. When I worked in orthopedics we admitted many criminal cases when they were injured while committing crimes.
The Hospital is holding my baby hostage! I need help... What are my rights?
Tell them you are taking your baby home, or to another hospital! They do not have rights to your child, you do!