Do I need to be admitted to hospital?
ri-ko-ve-RA-to — five syllables, stress on fourth. From 'ricoverare' = to admit (to hospital).
Ask the doctor after examination in A&E. Important for planning — contacting family, work, accommodation.
'Essere ricoverato' = to be admitted (to hospital). 'Ricovero' is the noun for hospital admission. Alternatives: 'ospedalizzazione', 'degenza' (hospital stay). 'Dimissioni' = discharge (going home). 'Reparto' = ward. If admitted, you will be transferred to the appropriate ward ('reparto di cardiologia', 'reparto di medicina generale', etc.).
Quanti giorni resterò in ospedale?
How many days will I stay in hospital?
Ask for estimated length of stay to inform family and work
Posso aspettare a casa e tornare?
Can I wait at home and come back?
Request outpatient management if possible
È possibile essere trasferito in un ospedale più vicino a casa mia?
Is it possible to be transferred to a hospital closer to my home?
Patient transfer request — possible for stable non-emergency cases
Hospital admission ('ricovero ospedaliero') in Italy is free under the SSN for medically necessary cases. Patients may pay a 'ticket' (co-payment) for some diagnostic tests even during admission. Italian hospitals traditionally allowed family members ('parenti') to visit freely and even bring home-cooked food. After COVID-19, visiting policies have become more regulated. Many Italian patients prefer to be transferred closer to home for longer stays.