• wash your hands before meals and after using the toilet
  • remind us to use hand gel or wash hands before touching you
  • do not touch your dressings or wounds
  • tell us if you have diarrhoea or vomiting
  • drink water regularly (if you’re allowed)
  • tell us if you’ve not had a pee or if it’s painful when peeing
  • eat regular meals (if you’re allowed)
  • if you haven't eaten a meal, please tell us why
  • ask your visitors to bring you small nutritious snacks
  • help staff to keep a record of what you eat and drink
  • drink plenty of water and eat well
  • keep your skin clean, dry and moisturised
  • change your position regularly
  • take a short walk every 1 to 2 hours (if you’re allowed)
  • tell us if your skin becomes red or sore
  • bring your walking aids, hearing aids and glasses to hospital with you
  • wear comfortable clothing that is not too long, loose or tight
  • wear comfortable, well fitting, flat, non slip shoes or slippers
  • get to know the ward and where the toilet is
  • learn how to use the bed controls and call bell
  • ask for help if you feel unsteady
  • move around to keep up your strength (if you’re allowed)
  • bring all your prescribed medicines with you and give them to us
  • do not take anything other than what has been prescribed to you on your medicine chart
  • ask us about changes to your medication before you go home
  • tell us if you’re worried about managing your medication at home
  1. Have I been seen by or has my plan of care been discussed with a hospital doctor today?
  2. Have there been any changes to my care made today and why?
  3. If I have a tube in, why is it in and when can it be removed?
  4. What date am I expected to go home?
  5. What tests am I waiting for, if any, and when will they be carried out?
  6. Which of these do I have to achieve before I can go home?
  • walk unaided
  • walk with a frame
  • walk with a stick
  • transfer from bed to chair
  • eating and drinking
  • care for my stoma
  • independently go to the toilet
  • have support in place for going home