Discharge instructions must include which of the following?

Discharge instructions must include which of the following?

• A. All pts will receive D/C instructions, including observations, safety issues, activity limitations, follow-up plans, and a 24-hour phone number
• B. A 24-hour phone number only
• C. A map to the next appointment
• D. A promise of no complications

Answer: (A)

Discharge instructions must be comprehensive and clear to guide a patient safely after leaving care. They should spell out what to observe and any safety issues to watch for, so the patient knows which symptoms would require urgent care. They should define activity limits to protect healing and prevent complications. They should lay out the plan for follow-up, including appointment timing or next steps, so care continues smoothly. They should include a 24-hour phone number or other direct contact method, ensuring access to advice or help outside ordinary hours. Having all of these elements helps the patient understand what to do at home, when to seek help, and how to reach the team if questions arise, reducing confusion and the risk of adverse events. Other options miss one or more critical pieces—for example, a 24-hour number alone omits guidance on symptoms and activity; a map to the next appointment omits safety and home-management details; and promising no complications is unrealistic and inappropriate. In practice, provide written and verbal instructions, check comprehension, and give the patient or caregiver a copy for reference.

Discharge instructions must be comprehensive and clear to guide a patient safely after leaving care. They should spell out what to observe and any safety issues to watch for, so the patient knows which symptoms would require urgent care. They should define activity limits to protect healing and prevent complications. They should lay out the plan for follow-up, including appointment timing or next steps, so care continues smoothly. They should include a 24-hour phone number or other direct contact method, ensuring access to advice or help outside ordinary hours. Having all of these elements helps the patient understand what to do at home, when to seek help, and how to reach the team if questions arise, reducing confusion and the risk of adverse events. Other options miss one or more critical pieces—for example, a 24-hour number alone omits guidance on symptoms and activity; a map to the next appointment omits safety and home-management details; and promising no complications is unrealistic and inappropriate. In practice, provide written and verbal instructions, check comprehension, and give the patient or caregiver a copy for reference.