Don't hesitate to call us if you need anything. We'll be with you as quickly as we possibly can.

When you're ready to be released from the hospital, your doctor will write or call in an order specifying when you can go, any prescriptions or supplies you'll need, and a plan for your first follow-up visit.

The nursing staff will give you specific information about limitations on your physical activity, diet, and proper use of medications. Your discharge plan will also include detailed instructions about what to do if you experience any problems like fever, infection, bleeding or excessive pain. Now is the time to ask all your important questions -- don't be bashful. The only silly question is the one you don't ask!

After any admission, you must have someone available to take you home. You may feel fine when it's time to leave, but you could have a problem with drowsiness or nausea from medicines, or lingering anesthetic. This could endanger you and others if you attempt to drive. We recommend that there be two adults to take a child home after anesthesia - one to drive and one to care for the child. It's also helpful if someone can check on you during the first few days you're at home.

After discharge, you may need some prescription medications. In some hospitals, the doctor's order for those medicines will be handled by one of the hospital pharmacies. In other cases, your doctor may give you a written prescription or call one in to the pharmacy of your choice.