What should be in a Hospital Discharge Checklist?

What should be in a Hospital Discharge Checklist?

I.e. so you know exactly what paperwork and medications to ask for before you leave the hospital.

Leaving the hospital is an exciting milestone, but the transition home can be overwhelming if you don’t have the right information. The “Discharge Process” involves several moving parts, from the pharmacy to transport.

To ensure a safe and smooth exit, use this checklist before you step out of the ward.

1. The ‘TTOs’ (To Take Out) Medications

TTOs are the medicines the hospital provides to last you until you can see your GP.

• Do I have at least 7 days of medication? The hospital should provide enough to bridge the gap.

• Has anything changed? Ask the nurse to explain which of your “usual” pills have been stopped or changed.

• Do I know how to take them? Ensure you understand the dosage, especially for new medications like blood thinners or painkillers.

• Side Effects: Ask, “What symptoms should I look out for that might mean I need to stop taking this?”

2. The Discharge Summary

This is a formal letter detailing your diagnosis, the treatment you received, and the follow-up plan.

• Can I have a copy? A digital version is sent to your GP, but you should always keep a physical copy for your own records.

• Is it accurate? Quickly check that your name, address, and the summary of what happened match your experience.

3. Follow-Up Appointments

• Who is booking my next check-up? Sometimes the hospital books it; other times you are told to “see your GP in two weeks.”

• Who is my consultant? Write their name down.
  • Do I need to see hom/her after my discharge? Where/when?
  • How will that appointment be made? Who do I contact (and how) if nothing haopens (often the case in the NHS!)

• District Nurses: If you have a wound or stitches, has a referral been made for a nurse to visit you at home?

4. Physical & Practical Logistics

• Transport: Do you have a ride home? If using hospital transport, be aware there can be a wait of several hours.

• The “Keys & Fridge” Check: Do you have your house keys? Is there food in the house, or does someone need to go shopping for you?

• Wound Care: If you have dressings, do you have spares, and do you know when they need to be changed?

Red Flags: When to Call Back

Before you leave, ask the nurse: “Who do I call if I feel unwell tonight?” Usually, you can call the ward directly for the first 24 hours, or you may be told to call 111.

Top Tip: The Golden Question

Before you leave the bedside, ask the doctor or nurse this one question:

“What is the one thing I should look out for that would mean I need to come back to the hospital?”

This gives you a clear “Red Flag” to monitor, providing peace of mind during your recovery at home.