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Dealing with a Medical Emergency Part 2: Prepping your Go Bag


After my recent emergency medical visit, I realized the importance of having a “Go Bag.”

This is a bag filled with the things necessary for a hospital visit whether planned or an

emergency.  My recommendations for a Go Bag are below.

 ·      Fill out the pages in your Hospital Safety Guide  (today…don’t wait for an emergency) and highlight sections that are important to you. You can download the guide for free from the Parkinson’s Foundation or order one at no charge (https://www.parkinson.org/resources-support/hospital-safety-guide)

·       Make sure your medication list is current.  My medication list is long and changes regularly, so instead of writing it in the guide each time, I keep a list of meds on my computer. I print it each time there is an update and staple a copy into my safety guide and give my husband a copy just in case. I also write the date on the list. 

·      Put brand name Parkinson’s meds in a prescription bottle with your current prescription on it in your bag.  It must not be expired.  Not all hospitals carry all medications in stock.  If you bring a current prescription with you, the staff should be able to  check it into their pharmacy and give it to you while you are in the hospital.  If you bring it in a pill box, have a sample bottle from your doctor, doesn’t have your name on it, or if it is expired, you are out of luck. You may have to wait to get your meds, or they may want to substitute something else.  This is not the time to be making medication changes. Don’t forget to rotate out the medications in your Go Bag to keep them from expiring.

·      If you have a medical device like DBS or a Vyalev infusion pump, keep extra accessories in your Go Bag.  Don’t forget your remote or battery charger if needed. Include instructions for your device in case the hospital staff needs it.  Unfortunately, they typically know little about Parkinson’s.  

·      Include a current copy of your ID card, insurance cards, and Advanced Directive if you have one. 

·      Include a notepad and pen.  You or your care partner may want to take down notes of what you have been given or what has been recommended to you.

·      Creature comforts:  These days you may be in the ER for many hours.  My Go Bag  includes a set of earphones, a phone charging cable and a pair of warm socks. 

 

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