Hospital discharge is a transition, not the end of care. Before leaving, ask the team to explain the plan in plain language and provide written instructions. If you do not feel safe managing at home, say so before discharge.
Confirm these six items
- Medicines: Know what started, stopped, or changed and when each dose is due.
- Warning signs: Understand which symptoms require a routine call, urgent review, or emergency help.
- Pending results: Ask which results are not final and who will contact you.
- Follow-up: Confirm the clinician, date, location, and who must book the appointment.
- Home care: Review wound care, diet, activity, equipment, rehabilitation, and caregiver needs.
- Records: Request the discharge summary, medicine list, test results, and relevant procedure information.
Use the “teach-back” method: repeat the plan in your own words and ask the team to correct anything misunderstood. Keep the hospital contact number accessible. Share the discharge information with your regular clinician as soon as possible.
If recovery involves travel, check that your clinician considers it safe. For future visits, save our hospital preparation checklist. If you are still deciding where to receive follow-up care, see how to choose a hospital near you.
Reference: WHO Patient Safety Rights Charter.
Medical disclaimer: Follow your own discharge instructions. Seek urgent professional help if symptoms are severe or worsening.