Discharge planning works best when it begins at admission rather than when the patient is medically fit. Three questions on day one surface most delays: where did the patient live and with whom, how did they manage daily activities two weeks ago, and who will look after them on the way home.
An estimated date of discharge, set early and revised daily, keeps the team, patient and family working to the same goal. In older patients, a functional baseline taken at admission is the yardstick for whether they are ready to go.
- Record where and with whom the patient lived before admission.
- Document baseline function from two weeks before the illness.
- Set an expected discharge date on day one and review it daily.
- Name the family member or carer who will receive discharge instructions.
Why it matters
Most discharge delays are visible on day one if someone asks.
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