Shorter hospital stays can be beneficial for some patients. They allow them to recuperate in the comfort of their own home and free up much-needed hospital beds for others.
However, short hospital stays can also be challenging, especially for patients in rural communities with limited access to specialized post-discharge care. Going home after surgery or an acute illness can leave the patient unprepared to care for themselves, and it could increase the risk of being readmitted to the hospital.
However, a transitional care unit could provide much-needed ongoing medical support as patients prepare to move from hospital to home. Learn more about transitional care units, how they work, and where to find one near you in East Adams County.
How Do Transitional Care Units Work?
Transitional care units, sometimes called swing bed units, care for patients who aren’t quite ready to manage their conditions independently. In a transitional care unit, patients receive ongoing medical care and rehabilitation from a trusted healthcare team. This prepares them for returning to their daily life and caring for themselves at home.
The transitional care unit team will assess patients’ needs and create a personalized care plan. Transitional care units accept patients recovering from hospital stays who need:
- Ongoing medical support
- Skilled nursing care
- Rehabilitation services
Many transitional care units are conveniently located within the same hospital where the patient received acute care, allowing for continuity of care and access to familiar medical professionals. Sometimes, patients remain in the same hospital room for transitional care.
What Are the Benefits of Transitional Care Units?
Transitional care units go beyond acute care to empower patients to actively participate in their recovery. The care patients receive in a transitional care unit offers significant benefits:
A Gentler Transition From Hospital Care
Leaving hospital care can be stressful, especially when there is limited medical support close to home. A TCU offers ongoing medical supervision that eases the shift back to daily life without overwhelming the patient.
Better Recovery Outcomes
Rehabilitation is a vital part of the recovery process. Transitional care provides access to physical, occupational, and speech therapy. The patient can regain strength and mobility in a safe environment with a personalized plan.
Improved Confidence in Caring for Themselves
The supportive environment of the TCU allows patients to practice caring for themselves while under the supervision of trusted healthcare professionals. This can build their confidence in managing conditions at home and reduce anxiety about handling daily self-care tasks.
Lower Risk of Hospital Readmission
Transitional care equips patients with the knowledge and tools to manage their condition at home, which reduces the risk of setbacks and the need for hospital readmission.
How Do I Find Transitional Care Units Near Me?
East Adams Rural Healthcare offers a state-of-the-art transitional care unit for patients after an acute illness, injury, or surgery. Our compassionate and experienced healthcare professionals are dedicated to helping you or your loved one regain strength and independence and return to daily life safely.
Ready to take the next step in your recovery? Contact our team to learn more about our transitional care unit and how we can help you smoothly transition back home.
