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Hospital discharge 3 minute read

Hospital Discharge Checklist: Making Your Home Safe Before Coming Back

Bringing an elderly relative home from the hospital following an operation, fall, or illness is a relief, but it requires careful preparation. Discharging someone into an unprepared home significantly increases the risk of a readmission.

Pre-Discharge Home Assessment Checklist

  • Clear Pathways: Remove trailing rug edges, low electrical cords, and hallway clutter that could snag a walking frame or stick.
  • Install Essential Grab Rails: Ensure support rails are in place beside the bed, along the hallway, and in the bathroom before they arrive home.
  • Organise Ground-Floor Living (If Needed): If climbing stairs is temporarily impossible, ensure access to a ground-floor toilet, wash basin, and sleeping arrangement.
  • Secure Key Access: Fit an outdoor key safe so returning care workers or district nurses can enter smoothly.

Organising these minor adjustments ahead of time ensures a smooth, safe transition from hospital ward to home comfort.

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