How to Deal with Emergencies at Home: Part 1 of 2

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Ernest Rosenbaum, MD

Ernest Rosenbaum, MD, is Clinical Professor of Medicine at the University of California, San...read more

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Supportive Homecare

How to Deal with Emergencies at Home: Part 1 of 2

February 11th, 2008

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One of the fears that both families and patients have when going home is: "What will happen in case of an emergency?" This section will help you prepare in advance, and feel confident that you can handle an emergency.

Even though your homecoming may be well planned, unexpected situations can of course arise with which your family helper may have difficulty coping. Good prior planning, with the help of your social worker, geriatric care manager, or doctor will do a lot to make your life at home comfortable and safe. But there is always the possibility of the unforeseen sudden need where a little knowledge and prior thought can provide the confidence that will make all the difference.

Be Prepared

First of all, you should be prepared for an emergency by knowing how to get help. Ask your physician how he or she can be reached quickly, if necessary; find out who to call when your doctor is not available. Keep this information on a card near your telephone:

Police	Tel:
Fire Department	Tel:
Physician	Tel:
Pharmacy	Tel:
Ambulance	Tel:
Nearest relative or friend	Tel:

Keep a close neighbor in mind, preferably someone who is physically strong, whom you can call on in case of a fall or other accident. It is reassuring to know that when you are at home, help and support are close at hand. Call your doctor for support and advice if a troublesome situation arises even if you are not sure it is an emergency.

If your doctor is in private medical practice, he or she or another member of his office team will be available twenty-four hours a day. Save routine questions for regular office hours-evening and weekends are for emergencies only.

What if My Physician isn't Around?

If you cannot reach your doctor, there may be others who know you and your medical situation. Do not hesitate to call your hospital ward and speak to one of your nurses. Take their names and the ward phone number with you when you leave the hospital. A nurse is always on duty there. She or he can answer many of your questions, or if necessary, direct you to the appropriate person. By talking with you and reassuring you, she might prevent a minor problem from keeping you and your family awake with worry. Nurses do remember their patients and are an oft-forgotten resource after the patient goes home.

Read Part 2 of How to Deal with Emergencies at Home

Posted in Emergencies, How to Care for Someone at Home, Supportive Homecare