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 Apply ice packs for 15-20 minutes, 3-4 times a day for the first 24-72 hours, but donât apply ice directly to the skin. 2  Aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen may relieve pain.  Compression shorts or a wrap bandage may be helpful.