During Your Hospital Stay

Staying in bed is your worst enemy. 

• Get moving every day, within your capabilities.
• Exercise to keep active. Ask your care or rehabilitation team which exercises you can do on your own or with the help of a family member.
• Sit in a chair at least three times a day at mealtimes.
• Walk to the bathroom. Walk down the corridor with your visitors (according to your ability and if approved by your care team).
• Maintain your habits and engage in your daily routine as much as possible in aligment to with your capabilities: washing, shaving, brushing your teeth, getting dressed, getting up, going to the bathroom, etc.
• Tell the nurse if your pain prevents you from moving.

Loss of appetite leads to loss of everything!

• If you don't have any restriction for your liquid intake, drink the whole glass of water when taking your medication.
• You need to eat to regain your strength. Ask your loved ones to bring your favorite snacks while you are hospitalized (notify staff).
• At mealtimes, be sure to eat the main course. 
• Make sure you have access to water at all times at your bedside (unless contraindicated). If necessary, ask your care team.
• Wear your dentures, if you have them.

• Tell the care team and the attending physician of your needs and wishes for your return home.
• Take part in the choice of objectives during your hospital stay to get back into shape.
• Get moving.
• Ask questions about your health.
• Ask to be present at your assessment meetings so that you can take part in the decisions and orientations that concern you.

To prevent constipation (3 days or more without a bowel movement): 

• Eat, drink, and stay active.
• Tell your care team if you think you might be constipated.
• If you can, limit the use of bedpans and incontinence products use.

• Respect your need for sleep and rest.
• Do not take long naps.
• Have an evening routine to help you regulate your sleep.
• If possible, share your sleep habits with the care team:  bed against the wall, music, herbal tea, etc.
• Wear earplugs, if your condition allows
• Be active during the day. Don't stay in bed all day.
• Don't go to bed too early at night.

• Crossword puzzles, reading, puzzles, card games...any activity that keeps your mind active!
• Wear your hearing aids and glasses, if applicable.
• Bring along photos of loved ones, music, or familiar objects. The hospital is not responsible for your personal belongings. Leave your valuables at home.

• Plan who will go to the pharmacy to pick up your medication after your leave the hospital, and who will be at home with you to help.
• Inform the staff immediately if you need to use the stairs, adapt your bathroom at home, and so on.
• Inform the staff of the services you already receive at home (CLSC, domestic help, Meals on Wheels, etc.).
• Plan your transportation for when you leave the hospital.
• Make sure you purchase or rent any recommended equipment, if required.