What to know upon discharge from the hospital: osteoarthritis

So you're being discharged from the hospital. Here's what you should know when you leave in order

to set yourself up for success. [MUSIC PLAYING]

Your discharge plan will be created during your stay at the hospital in concert with your doctor

and the rest of your health care team. This plan will help you to be prepared to stay healthy once you leave the hospital

and help you avoid having to come back. This is not an exhaustive list. Your health care providers will have specific guidance

tailored to your unique needs. But in general, here are some things you'll want your discharge plan to include.

The medical condition you have, any allergies you have, the medicines you should be taking and how and when to take them.

For those living with osteoarthritis, your health care team may recommend medications that reduce pain and or inflammation.

Some are over-the-counter like ibuprofen, while others require a prescription. Other medications that may be recommended

include counterirritants and corticosteroids. You'll want your discharge plan to include

where your next stop is. Are you going home or to another facility? Will you need special assistance like a home health aide?

When and where your next appointments are, and contact information for the providers you'll see.

Ways to monitor your condition-- for those living with osteoarthritis, it's important to monitor your weight

and try to maintain a healthy weight. Excess weight adds stress to your joints and can make your osteoarthritis worse.

You'll also want to monitor your blood sugar, as high blood sugar can have a negative effect on the cartilage in your body.

Ask your doctor how to do so and what your target levels should be. You'll want your discharge plan to include

what problems to look out for and what you should do in case one arises, who you should call

if you have a problem, what physical activities you can do, and ones you should avoid. For those living with osteoarthritis,

your health care team will most likely suggest getting exercise to help manage the condition. Weight training, stretching, cardio,

and balance exercises are all great ways to get physical activity and keep your joints moving.

But before you start a new exercise program, ask your health care provider if it's safe for you.

You'll want your discharge plan to include where you might find additional information and resources, what

special equipment-- if any-- you may need, what foods you should eat, and ones you should avoid.

If you have a caregiver, you'll want them to also know and understand the ins and outs of your discharge plan.

The same goes with anyone else who might be helping you after your discharge. Following your discharge plan will

help you stay healthy and, hopefully, avoid having to come back to the hospital. [AUDIO LOGO]