Hello, I just had to put my father in a nearby nursing home and he is simply 'hating life'. I visit him 3 times a week and stay for a good amount of time and bring him lunch or ice cream, whatever he likes. He recently had a fall in the middle of the night and needed stitches on his head (not the fault of the nursing home)....since then I THINK he's found a way to leave the nursing home by requesting to go to the ER. He said he thinks he broke his rib and went again to the ER a couple of days ago (no broken bones, but they checked that during his initial fall) and today he is complaining of chest pain so they are transporting him via ambulance to the heart hospital. The nursing home says that if he passes the cognitive test that they have to send him if he's requesting to go to the ER, so they are not liable in the long run. I know it may seem innocent enough, but I know my dad. My question is, how many times can my dad do this? I foresee him continually requesting to go to the ER. By the way, he is on Medicare through his SS. Thank you in advance.
Has your Dad never heard the folkstory of the boy who cried "Wolf!"?
If the NH kicks him out, then where will he go? Does he think he knows the answer to this (or is hoping to go live with you)?
If he's on Medicaid I would ask his social worker this question.
There is no reason for you to show up, is there?
If he enjoys the attention of the ER staff, let him have it.
Parents can be so darn difficult. It's like they're always coming up with something new to keep us on our toes!
Good luck.
Anyway t. M. I. I know but my answer comes with a question.
First , like the other person said if he likes the attention then let him have it. Just be sure to communicate with the E. R. staff as to not let him be discharged without your consent. Then they will call you and usually you can request an ambulance take him home.
Now question, why is it so hard to get my dad into a nursing home that isn't 3000 dollars a day. Lol