What is a Discharge Plan?
What is a Discharge Plan?A discharge plan is a written document detailing the specific instructions you need to follow in order to continuea healthy recovery after you leave the hospital.Whether you have been in the hospital for a short time or a long time it is a relief when you are finally told youcan leave.But in most cases, your recovery does not end when the hospital doors close behind you.Your Discharge Plan will give you and your loved ones the information you need to continue a healthy recoveryand avoid a return trip to the hospital.When you are ready to be released from the hospital, a nurse will meet with you to go over specific dischargeguidelines for a healthy recovery.At this meeting, you will receive a written discharge plan designed specifically for you.While your instructions will be specific to you and the reason you were admitted to the hospital, common partsof a Discharge Plan include:Your treatments or procedures, Newly prescribed medications, Directions for resuming your home medicationsand over-the-counter meds, Diet restrictions and nutrition goals, Physical activity restrictions and exercises,Return to work instructions, Instructions for incision or wound care, Patient education materials on yourconditions and recovery, Your doctor’s contact information, And the date of your follow-up appointmentincluding any referrals.You may also receive information on how to raise questions about your billing and stay.This is a lot of information and it is important you understand each part of your Discharge plan.Don’t be afraid to ask questions about all your conditions. And make sure you know who to call if you have anyquestions once you leave.It is often very helpful to have a family member or friend with you to write down specific points and to helpremember the information given. Ask for written materials to help. Hospitals have many education materialsavailable for you to take.Although you may be anxious to leave, take the time to understand your Discharge Plan now. It will beimportant to your health for the days and weeks to come.This program is for informational purposes only. Publisher disclaims all guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness,or suitability of this video for medical decision making. For all health related issues please contact your healthcare provider.VER59383B EN WhatisaDischargePlan.pdf© The Wellness NetworkPage 1 of 1
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