Nursing Component Task
Nursing procedures & clinical learning

General Nursing (RGN)

Discharge of a Patient

The organized process of preparing and releasing a patient from hospital care after authorization for discharge, including education, documentation, return of belongings and arrangements for follow-up care.

Purpose

  • Ensure safe and organized discharge.
  • Provide continuity of care.
  • Ensure required education and documentation are completed.
  • Return patient belongings and valuables.
  • Prepare the bed for the next patient.

Indications

  • Patient with an authorized discharge order.
  • Patient medically cleared for discharge.
  • Patient who has completed the required inpatient treatment.

Equipment

  • Patient's medical records/folder (Manual or electronic)
  • Discharge summary/notes (Manual or electronic)
  • Patient's medications (if any)
  • Patient's personal belongings and valuables
  • Wheelchair/stretcher (if needed)

Procedure steps

  • Confirm discharge order from the medical team.
  • Inform patient and relatives of the discharge.
  • Ensure patient has settled bills/insurance claims according to institutional protocol.
  • Retrieve patient's valuables and return to patient.
  • Complete discharge summary/notes (manually or electronically).
  • Educate patient on medication prior to discharge.
  • Educate patient on condition and its management.
  • Arrange for follow-up appointment/review date.
  • Provide referral letter if applicable.
  • Assist patient to dress in personal clothing.
  • Assist patient to pack belongings.
  • Assist patient onto wheelchair/stretcher if necessary.
  • Escort/accompany patient to the exit or waiting transport.
  • Bid patient and relatives farewell.
  • Remove and decontaminate bed linen and accessories.
  • Make up bed for next patient.
  • Update ward state/discharge book (manually or electronically).
  • Document discharge process and time of discharge.

Precautions

  • Confirm the discharge order before releasing the patient.
  • Ensure the correct patient receives medications, documents and valuables.
  • Provide clear medication and follow-up instructions.
  • Maintain confidentiality.
  • Use appropriate patient-handling techniques.
  • Complete discharge documentation accurately.

Educational resource only. Follow current Nursing and Midwifery Council guidance, local institutional protocols, scope of practice, and clinical supervision.

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