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| Leaving the Hospital
The day you’re finally able to leave the hospital may be filled with mixed emotions. You’ve probably waited for this event for weeks but now may be a little nervous. You might suddenly worry whether you are ready to be out on your own. It’s a big step, but your doctors are letting you take it because they’re confident you’re healthy enough to go. Be proud of yourself—you’ve reached a major milestone! |
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 "My
goal was to get out of the hospital so I could go see Star Wars: Episode
I when it first came out. I still had to wait a week after I got home, wear a mask, and go when the theater wasn’t as crowded, but it was great!”  Age 10, 1 month after transplant Stepping Out If you’ll be staying in the hospital for a long time, you may be allowed to take short trips away during the day before you’re actually discharged. You’ll probably have to wear a mask for protection and may even need to bring along your IV pole. The sights, sounds, and smells outside the hospital may be startling at first, especially if it’s been a while since you’ve experienced them. These trips can also be exhausting, but they’re great practice for when you go home for good. “I wanted to leave the hospital, but I was also kind of nervous.” says Cristina. “I thought that I’d get sick again and would have to go back to stay for a longer time.” |
Rules
for Release Hospitals have different rules for when transplant patients can be discharged to go home. Your white blood cell count will need to be high enough so that your body can begin to defend itself against everyday germs. The doctors and nurses will probably want you to be off antibiotics for a few days, and have had no fevers, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea for several days in a row. If you’re having trouble taking your medications by mouth, doctors may delay your discharge. Discharge Details Before you leave the hospital, your BMT caregivers will make sure you know everything you need to know to stay healthy at home. As your discharge day gets closer, you'll be taught: • how to prevent and identify infections • central line care • bathing and mouth care at home • nutritional instruction • guidelines for activity and sun exposure |
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