In the Event of an Emergency
If you find yourself checking in to the hospital, these four tips can help you prepare in the event of an emergency.
1. Be Prepared
If you’re alone and have a seizure, you may not be able to advocate for yourself. Keep this info in your purse or wallet:
- your name/contact info
- emergency contact
- a first-aid card that says you experience seizures
- a list of current meds
- your doctors’ info
You and your caregiver can keep a photo of this card on your smartphones.
2. Get Tests
The doctor may order an MRI or an EEG to determine the cause of symptoms, and your treatment plan will be determined. At discharge, the medication you may have received in an IV could be prescribed in oral (tablet or liquid) form.
3. Follow Instructions
At discharge, a planner will offer further instructions and may arrange a follow-up visit or give referrals. The Family Caregiver Alliance provides a comprehensive discussion guide on this topic. Go to caregiver.org and search for “Hospital Discharge Planning.”
4. Continue Care
Be sure to follow any instructions you receive after you are discharged, including filling prescriptions at the pharmacy; scheduling follow-up appointments with your neurologist/epileptologist; and updating your caregivers on the status of your health so they can advocate for you.
Originally printed in EpilepsyAdvocate, Winter 2016
