What key information should a comprehensive discharge plan include?

A comprehensive discharge plan is essential for ensuring that patients transition safely from the hospital to their home or another care setting. It focuses on providing clear instructions tailored to the patient’s ongoing healthcare needs. This includes detailed information regarding follow-up care appointments, medication instructions, and any necessary lifestyle changes. By including the patient's follow-up care and medication instructions, the discharge plan aims to prevent complications or readmissions, thereby improving patient outcomes and enhancing their overall healthcare experience.

In contrast, other options such as local events and activities or a list of current hospital employees do not pertain to the patient's ongoing medical care and therefore do not contribute to effective discharge planning. General information about the hospital may provide context but is not relevant to a patient's health needs post-discharge.