Hospital admission

Hospital admission refers to the process by which an individual is accepted into a hospital for treatment. This process involves several steps, including the initial assessment, the decision to admit, and the actual admission process.

Initial Assessment

The initial assessment is the first step in the hospital admission process. This involves a medical examination by a healthcare professional, typically a doctor or nurse, to determine the patient's condition and the need for hospitalization. The assessment may include a physical examination, medical history, and various diagnostic tests.

Decision to Admit

The decision to admit a patient to the hospital is made based on the results of the initial assessment. Factors that may influence this decision include the severity of the patient's condition, the need for specialized care or monitoring, and the patient's ability to care for themselves at home. In some cases, the decision may also be influenced by the availability of beds in the hospital.

Admission Process

Once the decision to admit has been made, the actual admission process begins. This typically involves completing various forms and providing information about the patient's medical history, insurance coverage, and emergency contacts. The patient may also be assigned a hospital bed and given an identification bracelet.

Discharge

The hospital admission process concludes with the patient's discharge. This involves a final medical examination, instructions for home care, and arrangements for follow-up appointments. The patient's medical records are also updated to reflect the care received during the hospital stay.

See Also

• Emergency department
• Intensive care unit
• Medical record