Checklist for Discharge
Discharge Summary
This includes why you were in the hospital, who cared for you and your procedures and medicines.
Medicine List
This may be part of your discharge summary. It should include new and existing prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and supplements. Ask if there are any medicines you can stop taking or that are not good to take together. Also make sure you know why, how and when to take each one.
New Prescriptions
Check that your pharmacy has your new prescriptions, and that you have a plan to get them filled and picked up.
Local Resources
Ask your discharge planner for help finding local after-care services or other support groups that you may need.
After-Hospital Services
Know if you’ll need support in these areas and make a plan for getting it:
- personal care, like
bathing, eating, dressing, toileting
- home care, like cooking, cleaning, laundry, shopping
- healthcare, like
taking your medicines, doctor’s appointments, physical therapy, wound care, injections, medical equipment
Follow-Up Care Instructions
Beyond medicine, these can include:
- foods or activities to avoid
- tests or appointments
- how to care for incisions or use equipment
- warning signs to watch for
- daily living adjustments (like how to get into bed)
- who to call with questions