Hospital Discharge Checklist
5 things to check before your loved ones leave hospital
Published: 01/01/2026
When a loved one is being discharged from hospital, it can feel relieving but also overwhelming. A smooth transition home is vital to recovery, safety, and wellbeing. Taking a few simple steps in advance can make a significant difference.
Here are five essential things to check before discharge to help ensure your loved one comes home safely and with the right support in place.
1. The Hospital Discharge Plan
Before your loved one leaves hospital, ask for a copy of the full discharge plan.
It should include:
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A summary of diagnosis, treatment, and hospital stay
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Clear medication instructions (dosage, timing, and possible side effects)
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Follow-up appointments (GP, physiotherapy, specialists)
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Red-flag symptoms that mean “call a doctor” or “call 999”
👉 Pro tip: If you’re working with a home-care team (like Right at Home Derby), share this document as soon as possible. It allows us to tailor care from day one and put support in place more quickly.
2. Medication Review & Management
Medication changes are one of the biggest risks after discharge.
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Double-check old prescriptions – some may have been stopped or even replaced
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Right at Home Derby can assist with medication providing they're in the original packaging with the pharmacy's prescription label. Alternatively, think about using a blister pack or pill organiser to prevent errors.
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Ensure your care provider has a full, up-to-date medication list
👉 Ask the hospital pharmacist or GP for a medication reconciliation to make sure there are no clashes or duplications.
3. Home Safety & Accessibility
Falls and re-admissions often happen because the home environment isn’t ready.
Check beforehand:
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Trip hazards (rugs, clutter, loose wires)
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Staircases and bathrooms (handrails, grab rails, non-slip mats)
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Lighting, especially between bedroom and bathroom at night. A motion sensor plug in night light can give reassurance
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Bed and chair height – are these easy to get in and out of
👉 If you’re unsure, consider booking a home safety assessment. Many home-care providers offer this, and at Right at Home Derby we are happy to advise.
4. Follow-Up Care & Support
Think about what ongoing help may be needed in the first few weeks:
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Personal care (showering/bathing, getting dressing, cooking meals)
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Medication reminders
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Physiotherapy or rehabilitation exercises.
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Monitoring wounds, mobility, or changes in cognition
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Emotional support and companionship
👉 Arranging professional care for the first 1–2 weeks after discharge can significantly reduce stress and the risk of readmission.
5. Communication Between Everyone Involved
Good communication is key.
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Ensure the GP, hospital teams, carers, and family share any updates
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Use digital care tools or apps to view visit notes, medication lists, and contact details
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Schedule a first-week review to check everything is running smoothly
👉 Families often tell us how reassuring our digital care app is, helping them stay informed and connected.
💡 Bonus Tip – Ask the Discharge Nurse:
“What are the top three signs that my relative may be deteriorating?”
This simple question often highlights early warning signs to watch for.
Need Support After a Hospital Discharge?
If you or a loved one would benefit from professional care following a hospital stay, Right at Home Derby is here to help.
From short-term recovery support to ongoing care, our friendly and experienced team can create a personalised care plan to suit your needs.
📞 Derby: 01332 913232
