checklist for discharge

Discharge Summary

This includes why your child was in the hospital, who cared for them, your child’s procedures and medicines.

New Prescriptions

Check that your pharmacy has your child’s new prescriptions, and make sure you have a plan to get them filled and picked up.

Medicine List

This may be part of your child’s discharge summary. It should include new and existing prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and supplements. Ask if there are any medicines your child can stop taking or that are not good to take together. Also make sure you know why, how and when to give each one.

Follow-Up Care Instructions

Beyond medicine, these can include:



• foods or activities to avoid
• tests or appointments
• how to care for incisions or use equipment
• warning signs to watch for
• daily living adjustments 
• who to call with questions

After-Hospital Services

Know if you’ll need help with: doctor’s appointments, physical therapy, wound care, injections and medical equipment.

Local Resources

Ask your discharge planner for help finding local support groups or other after-care services that you or your child may need.