Going home after a hospital stay can bring a mix of emotions. You may feel relieved to have your child home, while also wondering, What do I do now? 

For families of children with special health care needs, the transition home can involve much more than following discharge instructions. There may be medications to manage, appointments to schedule, specialists to contact, equipment or services to arrange, and new symptoms to watch for. 

You don’t have to figure it all out at once. Taking the next steps one at a time can help you feel more prepared and supported at home. 

Start With the Basics 

When you first get home, focus on understanding what has changed for your child. 

Take a look at your discharge paperwork and make sure you know: 

• What medications your child should take and when 
• What symptoms or changes you should watch for 
• Which activities your child can or cannot do 
• What follow-up appointments are needed 
• Which providers you need to contact 
• Who to call if you have questions or concerns 

If something does not make sense, ask. You should feel comfortable asking your child’s care team to explain something again. 

Don’t Let Follow-Up Care Fall Through the Cracks 

After a hospital stay, there can be a lot of appointments to keep track of. Your child may need to see their pediatrician, a specialist, therapist, or another healthcare provider. 

If you haven’t already scheduled the appointments your child needs, make them a priority. 

It can also help to keep a list of upcoming appointments and bring your child’s discharge information with you. Let each provider know about the recent hospital stay and any changes to your child’s care plan. 

Pay Attention to Medications 

Medication changes are common after a hospital stay. Your child may have a new prescription, a different dose, or a medication that has been stopped. 

Before giving a medication, make sure you know: 

• The name of the medication 
• How much to give 
• How often to give it 
• When to start and stop it 
• What to do if your child misses a dose 
• What side effects to watch for 

If a prescription isn’t at the pharmacy, something looks different than expected, or you have questions about your child’s medications, contact your care team before making changes. 

Think About What Your Family Will Need at Home 

Your child’s needs may be different after a hospital stay. Consider whether you need help with things such as: 

• Medical equipment or supplies 
• Home health services 
• Transportation 
• Food, housing, or other community resources 
• School accommodations or support 
• Mental health services 
• Additional help from family members or other caregivers 

These needs are an important part of your child’s recovery and ongoing care. Let your care team know if something is making it difficult for you to follow your child’s care plan at home. 

Know When You Need More Support 

Even when you have a plan, questions can come up once you’re home. 

Maybe your child’s symptoms have changed. Maybe you’re unsure whether something is expected after the hospital stay. Maybe you need help figuring out who to call. 

You don’t have to wait until you’re in crisis to ask for help. 

For eligible children, Imagine Pediatrics provides 24/7 virtual and in-home care and support for children with special health care needs. Our team includes pediatricians, nurses, licensed mental health therapists, and care navigators who work together to support your child and family. 

After a hospital stay, our team can help with: 

• Coordinating follow-up appointments 
• Understanding discharge instructions 
• Supporting medication management and treatment plan adherence 
• Connecting you with community resources and school support 
• Coordinating with your child’s existing healthcare providers 
• Providing mental health and crisis support 
• Helping with acute health concerns  

We don’t replace your child’s doctors. We work alongside your child’s existing care team to help make sure your family has support between appointments and after the hospital doors close. 

Your Child’s Care Doesn’t Stop at Discharge 

A hospital stay may end when your child goes home, but their care continues. 

With the right plan, follow-up, and support, you can feel more confident managing what’s next and your child can have more Safe Days at Home.

We’re Here for You and Your Child 

Imagine Pediatrics is dedicated to improving the health and lives of children with special health care needs. We provide 24/7 virtual and in-home care and support. Our integrated medical, mental, and social care is personalized to meet the needs of your child. We don’t replace your child’s current care team. We work with them to give your child more access to the specialized care they need, whenever they need it. Our services are often at no cost if they are part of your child’s existing health plan benefits. Learn more about us here or call us (833) 208-7770.

Legal Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals for medical concerns. In case of emergency, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room immediately.