Being Discharged From the Hospital

When people have recovered sufficiently or can be appropriately treated elsewhere, they are discharged from the hospital. Most older people leave the hospital before they have fully regained their strength and their ability to function. So making plans to help people function safely after discharge is important. For example, an older person may need a short stay in a rehabilitation facility. They may need special equipment (such as oxygen tanks), transportation, health care at home, or help with daily activities (such as preparing meals, doing housework, dressing, or bathing). Or a long-term care facility may have to be chosen. A discharge planner or a social worker at the hospital can anticipate which problems are likely, then make suggestions about and arrange needed services. However, the person and family members should be involved in the plans to make sure they are appropriate.

Before leaving the hospital, older people or their family members should make sure that they have detailed instructions for follow-up care. Getting a written schedule for using the prescribed drugs and for follow-up appointments can help. If older people are being discharged to another facility, a written summary of their treatment plan should be sent with them and another copy faxed to the facility.