In most cases, the decision to admit a patient can be made in under 48 hours, and many times in less than 24 hours, according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Hospital costs for admitted inpatients are covered under Medicare Part A after the patient pays a deductible ($1,216 for 2014). But observation care is considered an outpatient service, and Part A doesnât cover such services.
Using an ice or cold pack Apply an ice or cold pack to the injured or sore area at least 3 times a day for as long as you have pain, swelling, and inflammation. For the first 72 hours, ice for 10 minutes, once an hour.
1 You can make your own ice pack by moistening a towel and placing it in a zip-top freezer bag. 2  Freeze the pack for 15 minutes. 3  Wrap a damp towel around the bag and apply to the affected area. 4  Do not apply an ice pack to an open or infected wound.