24 HOUR CARE? HOW MANY PEOPLE NEED TO BE AT HOME?
Only one caregiver must be present to help a patient with a Total Artificial Heart (TAH). Additional help is always better but it's hard to manage when you have your own job and life to manage.
WHAT ARE THE VISITING HOURS?
Visiting hours do not apply if your loved one is in the ICU, nor does it apply in the step down unit and Rehab since a care giver is required to be with the patient with a TAH 24/7.
ARE FLOWERS ALLOWED?
No flowers or plants are allowed in the ICU. Save flowers for the step down unit or rehab.
WHAT IS REHAB LIKE AT THE HOSPITAL?
Think of it as a discharge while receiving physical, occupational and speech therapy with very little supervision form the nursing staff. During therapy outside of the patient room, the caregiver will be responsible for carrying the backup device. If the 17lb device is too heavy, the rolling cart comes in handy.
SHOULD I TAKE THAT TRIP?
Yes, if you are able to coordinate a schedule with other family members or caregivers, take that trip. You need to get out and feel 'normal' too.