Trauma Patients & Families

Treatment from a Level II Trauma Center in Virginia

Our trauma center provides a high level of care to both patients and their families. Trauma patients are immediately cared for by trauma care experts with the help of the latest in equipment and technology. Our well-rounded staff takes a comprehensive approach to care, drawing upon the experience and knowledge of our anesthesiologists, radiologists, surgeons, rehabilitation specialists, and more.

At Mary Washington Hospital, our staff cares for trauma patients in the following floors and areas:

• Trauma Resuscitation Bay: Located in the Emergency Department, this area is where emergency evaluation and treatment take place.
• Surgical Intensive Care Unit: This 18-bed unit is monitored 24/7 and is staffed by trauma surgeons, who are surgical intensivists, and other qualified professionals.
• 2 South (Surgical Intermediate Care): This 32-bed intermediate care unit monitors patients whose conditions have improved. 24/7 care is provided by an interdisciplinary team.
• 5 West (Trauma Floor): This 30-bed unit provides care 24/7 for patients. Registered Nurses and Case Managers formulate a plan of discharge for each patient.

A Chaplain or Patient Ambassador, whom are members of the Trauma Team, will meet with you and other family to facilitate communication with the trauma clinical team and coordinate visits to the bedside if possible. A chaplain will provide spiritual support as needed. Often information flow from the Trauma Team physicians to the family is initially limited because information is being gathered and the patient being stabilized. However as soon as possible, family will be informed of the patient status.

Trauma Patient Discharge Process

If special arrangements need to be made upon discharge, the Trauma Case Manager will meet with you and your family to help with discharge plans.

The following are a list of special arrangements that may be needed for your patient:

• Acute Rehabilitation Hospital: This may be an option for patients who can tolerate daily therapy. There are several rehab facilities in the area.
• Skilled Nursing Facility: A short stay at a skilled nursing facility may benefit patients who require sustained physical, occupational, or speech therapies.
• Home with Home Care: Your trauma case manager may arrange for patients who need therapy or home nursing prior to discharge.
• Home with Outpatient Care: Patients may receive a prescription for outpatient care. They will need to find a clinic close to their home and make an appointment.
• Home with No Home Care: If a patient doesn’t need home care, he or she may be discharged. The family may receive recommendations for continued care and follow-up with a physician.

Planning the patient’s discharge from the hospital often requires the Trauma Case Manager to communicate with the insurance company to determine benefits and preferred providers for care and equipment. If you do not have health insurance, the Trauma Case Manager and financial counselor can help you and your family determine where to apply for assistance.