A home-care-ready hospital discharge plan (in 10 minutes)

A practical checklist families can use the day before discharge so the first 48 hours at home are safer and calmer.

If you only do one thing before discharge, do this: write down the first 48 hours.

1) Confirm the diagnosis and the ‘watch list’. Ask: What would make us call the doctor vs. go to the ER?

2) Get the medication list in writing. Ask: Which meds are new, which are stopped, and when is the first dose due at home?

3) Schedule follow-ups before you leave. Primary care and any specialists—get dates/times, not “call later.”

4) Ask about mobility and restrictions. Can they use stairs? Any weight-bearing limits? What transfer technique should we use?

5) Set up the home ‘landing zone’. A chair with arms, good lighting, water, snacks, phone charger, and a clear path to the bathroom.

6) Decide who is responsible for each task. Meds, meals, bathing, transportation, and overnight safety.

If you want, we can help you turn discharge instructions into a simple home routine and a caregiver schedule.