Printable family resource

Hospital discharge checklist.

Use this with the hospital team and family to organise a safer return home. Add names, times and phone numbers rather than relying on assumptions.

Person: ____________________   Expected discharge: ____________________
Discharge coordinator: ____________________   Telephone: ____________________

Before leaving hospital

Written discharge or care plan received
It identifies support, frequency, monitoring, coordinator and emergency contact.
Medication explained
List new, changed and stopped medicines; doses; timings; supply; collection and who will help.
Transport confirmed
Include mobility, oxygen, wheelchair and help entering the home where relevant.
Equipment delivered and usable
Confirm delivery before arrival and ask who to contact if equipment is missing or unsuitable.
Follow-up appointments recorded
Dates, locations, transport, tests, therapy, district nursing and GP follow-up.
Warning signs understood
Write down what to watch for and exactly who to contact during and outside office hours.

The home is ready

Safe route through the home
Entrance, chair, bed and bathroom are accessible, well lit and free from loose obstacles.
Heating, electricity and phone working
Phone and charger are within reach; key-safe or entry arrangements are confirmed.
Food and drinks available
Suitable for current dietary, swallowing and preparation needs.
Personal items ready
Clean clothing, continence supplies, glasses, hearing aids, batteries and mobility aids.

First 48 hours

First evening covered
Name: ____________________ Time: ____________________ Phone: ____________________
Overnight plan agreed
Who is present or on call, what support is expected and what triggers urgent help.
Next morning covered
Personal care, breakfast, medication, mobility and first professional visit.
Home-care visits confirmed
Provider: ____________________ First visit: ____________________ Phone: ____________________
Family responsibilities are specific
Shopping, pets, laundry, prescriptions and appointments each have a named person.

Reviews and longer-term support

Short-term support review date recorded
Date: ____________________ Responsible person/team: ____________________
Longer-term assessment route understood
Care needs assessment, financial assessment or NHS Continuing Healthcare discussion where appropriate.
Unpaid carer support considered
Ask whether a carer’s assessment or planned respite would help.
Important: this checklist supports planning but does not replace clinical instructions. Follow the written discharge plan. For an emergency, use the appropriate emergency service.
FJ
Prepared by Francess JagneA Star Care Agency · Reviewed 15 July 2026