Acute / Inpatient Rehabilitation
Intensive therapy 3 hours daily for patients who can tolerate and benefit from aggressive rehabilitation with 24/7 medical supervision.
How to Prepare for a Safe Discharge
Leaving the hospital is a major step in your recovery. A safe and well-planned discharge can help prevent complications and avoid unnecessary readmission.
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Why Discharge Planning Matters
Careful discharge planning helps ensure you receive the right care at the right time.
Possible Next Levels of Care
Understanding your options helps you make informed decisions about your recovery path.
Sub-acute Rehabilitation
Moderate therapy for patients needing rehabilitation but not able to tolerate intensive programs. Includes skilled nursing care.
Long-Term Acute Care Hospital (LTACH)
Extended medical care for patients with serious conditions requiring ongoing acute hospital-level treatment and monitoring.
Home with Home Health Services
Return home with visiting professionals providing therapy and nursing care in your home environment.
Home with Outpatient Therapy
Return home with regular therapy at a clinic setting as needed, typically 1-2 times weekly per discipline.
Before Discharge
Make sure that:
- You understand any changes to your medications and confirm prescriptions
- Your caregivers have completed training to safely support you
- Your follow-up appointments are scheduled
- Your recommended Durable Medical Equipment (e.g., walker, bedside commode) is ordered and arriving before discharge or to home as needed
If discharging to a facility, ask:
- What does a typical day look like (therapy intensity, nursing care, visitation)?
- How long can I expect to stay at this level of care?
- Which facilities are reputable and appropriate for my needs?
IMPORTANT: It is vital that you do your own research or reach out to others who can help as rehabilitation facilities vary in quality, scope of services, and areas of specialization.
If discharging back home, ask:
- Will I have enough support at home (SAFETY first)?
- How often will home health or outpatient therapy be provided?
- Does the home health agency offer the specialty care I require?
IMPORTANT: Make sure you fully understand the level of supervision your PT/OT/SLP are recommending as well as safety strategies and home exercise program.
Speak Up: The CUS Tool
If you have reservations about the discharge plan, try the "CUS Tool" for self-advocacy:
C
Concerned
"I am concerned about this procedure"
U
Uncomfortable
"I am uncomfortable discharging home without support"
S
Safety
"I worry that this is a safety issue"
Download this guide as a printable PDF to help you prepare for discharge.
Download PDF