Essential Medical Tracking List

1. 100+ index cards
2. post-it notes
3. several baskets or plastic totes
4. sharpie
5. blank notebook
6. paper clips
7. binder clips

Preparing the home

Coming home from a long-term hospital stay is a new kind of stress for the primary caregiver. Here are some things you can do (with their permission) to prepare.

If you have access to the home:

• Clean or hire a professional cleaner (vacuum, remove all trash, run laundry and dishwasher, wipe down bathrooms).
• Make up beds with fresh sheets (including a water proof mattress protecter if needed).
• Clean and prepare additional sheets, bed linens, towels and washcloths
• Stock the refrigerator and pantry with easy to eat foods (see separate list)
• Stock extra cleaning supplies (disposable surface wipes, paper towels, tissues, toilet paper, wet wipes, garbage bags, disposable gloves in the appropriate size)
• Prepare a cooler or latching tote for others to drop off meals, groceries, etc. Place a discreet sign outside/inside.
  • Outside: Deliveries here
  • Inside: Thank you for this drop off. If you require a signature please text xxx-xxx-xxxx. If you would like to send well-wishes or offer additional support, please contact ____________.
• Replace ALL of the batteries in ALL of the smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors (trust me, this is the time they will choose to beep in the night).
• Place night lights in the bathroom(s) and on the pathway between where the person will sleep and the bathroom.

If you do not have access to the home:

• Create a shopping list/order for any/all of these items that can be delivered or picked up by someone local.
• Coordinate with those who do/neighbors if possible.
• Research local food, grocery, supply delivery possibilities and make a list.
• Things you can purchase that may be of use: night lights, 'touch' lamps (that don't have a specific switch but you can touch anywhere to turn the light on), mattress cover, extra sheets, special pillows (wedges, triangles, etc.), a shower stool.