Patient Guide
Key Information for Your Stay
Planning Ahead
Plan Early
Our goal is to make the day of your discharge a smooth transition. To continue to provide you with high-quality and safe care, the following steps will need to be completed prior to you leaving the hospital.
Process on Day of Discharge
- Admitting physician approves patient discharge. This process can take several hours.
- Home needs discussed and arranged.
- Discharge plan finalized by all consulting physicians.
- All necessary results of lab or procedure results are verified by physician.
- Preparation of discharge instructions by physician and verified by RN for your safety.
- Your belongings are gathered and you are prepared for discharge.
- Washington Hospital’s Pharmacy delivers medication to your room if applicable.
- Review discharge instructions.
- The nurse or nursing assistant will escort you to your car.
A safe discharge process requires all steps be completed prior to leaving.
A Reason to Plan Early
If you need a rehabilitation facility, nursing home, skilled care or other service after your stay, you’ll need time to find and weigh your options. For help comparing services in your local area, go to
www.medicare.gov/care-compare or
www.qualitycheck.org.
Not Ready to Leave?
You have the right to appeal your discharge if you don’t agree with the decision that you are ready to leave the hospital. Speak with your case manager, doctor or nurse, and share your concerns. You may also need to reach out to Medicare, Medicaid or your insurance company.
Try the Teach-Back Method
Repeat back what you hear the discharge planner say to make sure you understand the details correctly.