What preparations should family members make before transfer?

Before transferring or discharging, family members should prepare documents, belongings, and communication to ensure a smooth transfer process.

Prepare materials

When transferring a patient, the receiving facility relies on medical records, test reports, and discharge summaries to understand their condition. Family members should organize these documents in advance, place them in a single folder, and carry them during transport. Ensure all documents are arranged chronologically for easy review by medical staff. If the patient is taking specific medications, bring the medication boxes or a complete list along with dosage instructions and administration times. Having all materials ready allows new healthcare providers to quickly grasp the patient's status and reduces redundant questioning. Since medical records contain sensitive personal information, family members must keep them safe and secure during transit to prevent loss. Upon discharge, hospitals provide a discharge summary; be sure to collect this document, as it is crucial for the receiving facility to understand the treatment history. Keep extra copies of medical records on hand in case the originals are lost, which could delay administrative procedures.

Item Preparation

Pack personal items based on your hospital routine: everyday clothes, toiletries, a water bottle, and essential daily necessities. For long-distance transfers, plan for meals during transit by bringing easily digestible snacks and drinking water. Bring familiar pillows and blankets to ensure comfort on the journey. Important reminder: Keep valuables with you at all times—do not store them in the vehicle's cargo area. Pack only what you need; excessive items create unnecessary handling burdens. Prepare warm or cooling accessories for weather changes. While vehicle temperature is adjustable, having personal items on hand provides added security. Note: Some hospitals have restrictions on items taken out. Confirm policies before discharge to avoid last-minute oversights.

Situation Communication

Before departure, confirm with the nurse whether the patient can sit upright and if oxygen is required; this determines whether to use a stretcher or wheelchair. Coordinate the pickup time and location with the transport service, share the patient's condition so staff can prepare in advance, and sync the estimated arrival time with the receiving facility to facilitate their readiness. Clear communication across all three parties ensures a smooth, on-schedule departure, reducing stress for family members and discomfort for the patient. Every detail confirmed in advance lays the groundwork for a seamless transfer. Once confirmed, record key details—such as departure time, pickup/drop-off locations, and contact information—and verify them on the day of travel. Confirm the names and contact details of the personnel handling pickup/drop-off to ensure smooth coordination upon arrival. Also verify the destination department and floor number with the receiving facility so the vehicle can park at the closest convenient spot.

Guangzhou Kangshun Emergency Transport Co., Ltd. specializes in non-emergency medical transport services. For inquiries or to schedule a transfer, please contact us via the Kangshun official website online—we are here to assist you. Important reminder: In case of sudden illness or emergency medical situations, call 120 immediately and do not delay seeking treatment.