How to Prepare for Post-Acute Care

Once you’ve been in hospital care for an injury, illness or major medical procedure such as a hip replacement, it can be difficult to leave. You’re close to your doctor. You have your routine down and nurses ready at the touch of a button. You wonder… what’s the next step?

Many patients choose to transition into a post-acute care facility such as Santé for continued treatment and physical therapy. Post-acute care includes rehabilitation or palliative services that patients receive after (or, in some cases, instead of) a hospital stay. 

Arranging for Care

When should you start thinking about post-acute care? Ideally, you’ll want to arrange for care at one of our Santé facilities prior to undergoing surgery, or while you’re unexpectedly in the hospital with an illness or injury. If you know you’ll have the need for upcoming care, or you’re a family member tasked with finding a facility for an elderly relative, schedule a visit at one of our five Arizona facilities. Unlike with hospitals, there is generally no time limit at post-acute care facilities. Patients can opt to stay with us for a longer period, or transition home (with or without home health care) whenever they are ready and able.

What to Expect

When you enter a post-acute facility, the primary goal is your continued recovery. While you’re with us following an injury or planned surgery, Santé’s on-site physical therapists will work with you to create a daily exercise routine that’s appropriate for your age, health and condition. You’ll have access to a full gym with body-weight-supported treadmills and harnesses for post-hospital workouts. Whether you’re already up and moving, or need a little help getting back on your feet, our strengthening equipment can assist you in achieving mobility goals. Santé’s facilities also include a kitchen, washer/dryer and therapy bath so patients can practice the daily activities they would do at home.

What to Bring

If you are transitioning to a Santé facility, you’ll need to pack some essentials. We recommend packing as if you’re heading on extended vacation, with enough clothes for your stay, plus toiletries and comfortable slippers.

Things to pack:

• Several sets of comfortable pajamas/sleepwear
• Slippers and comfortable daily shoes
• Workout clothing (for daily rehab)
• Casual daytime outfits
• Personal necessities such as glasses or contacts
• Shampoos, hair products, preferred soaps and deodorant, shaving products, toothbrush and toothpaste

Because Santé acts as your “home away from home,” it can be tempting to over-pack. While it’s perfectly fine to bring a few framed photos for your nightstand and a favorite blanket or personal item, you probably want to leave your Precious Moments collection and fine jewelry at home. When in doubt, Santé’s helpful admissions staff can help you determine what to bring, and what to leave behind.

With a little planning, transitioning to post-acute care can be an easy and comfortable process. At Santé, we’re here to answer your questions about post-acute care and transitional rehabilitation. Call 480-563-2402 for information on our inpatient and home health care programs, or schedule a visit to one of our facilities today.