By Cheryl Wirtley
Have you thought about what you would need if you went to the hospital? It is important to spend time organizing your papers and medications, in the event, you go to the hospital, you will be ready.
The Parkinson’s Foundation created a hospital kit, called the Aware in Care Kit, which is free and available on their website. You will find the following things in the kit: fact sheets for the nurses, a hospital action plan, a medical alert card and bracelet, and a medication form. This kit is invaluable to you and the medical staff. The nurse fact sheet shows which medications are harmful to patients with Parkinson’s. Take one sheet and stick it in your wallet. The link below will take you to the page where you can order your kit for free. I have not seen this information anywhere else.
The Parkinson’s Foundation also has a medication form where you can list your medications. Enter your information in the table and print it out. How easy is that?
It is important to always be prepared for a hospital visit, even if you do not currently have plans to be in the hospital. Pack a bag or backpack as if you were going to the hospital and keep it handy in case you need it. Here are things you should include in your bag:
Current medications
Medication list by name (multiple copies)
Medication list by the time (multiple copies)
Copy of Living Will
Copy of Durable Power of Attorney for health care
Paper and pen
Sweater
Change of clothes
Parkinson’s Foundation Aware in Care Kit
Paperback book
Last, but not least, be your own advocate. Speak loudly. Speak up if you did not receive your medications or they were not given on time. Let the nurses know if there is a problem or you are feeling worse. Your partner/spouse/friend may not be with you to advocate on your behalf. Speak up, speak out. Use your voice. Your goal is to get well, so you can return home to your family. Pack your bag today.
Originally published on Cheryl’s Blog, Inside Parkinson’s.