Going Home After Hospital Checklist

STEP 01

Before leaving hospital

Confirm the discharge plan with the ward team.

Ask for a copy of your discharge summary and follow-up dates.
Get an updated list of medicines, including what was started, changed or stopped.
Check wound-care instructions and whether dressings need changing.
Ask about walking, lifting, bathing and other activity restrictions.
Confirm who to contact if you have questions after going home.

STEP 02

Plan medicines and supplies

Know what you already have and what you still need.

Check that you have enough medicine until the next refill.
Ask how and when to take each medicine.
Check whether you need dressings, gloves, underpads or feeding supplies.
Ask whether a wheelchair, bed or other equipment has been recommended.
Keep prescriptions and medicine instructions together.

STEP 03

Prepare the home

Make sure essential items are ready before arrival.

Arrange a safe resting and sleeping area.
Clear walking paths and prepare a light near the bed and bathroom.
Place medicines, water, a phone and essential supplies within reach.
Plan who will help with meals, transport and daily tasks.
Keep follow-up appointment details and contact numbers accessible.

STEP 04

First days at home

Follow the care plan and keep track of questions.

Take medicines as instructed by the healthcare team.
Follow the given wound-care and rehabilitation instructions.
Keep a note of questions and changes to discuss at review appointments.
Attend scheduled follow-ups or contact the treating team if you cannot attend.
Seek urgent medical care for serious or rapidly worsening symptoms.

Important: Your hospital discharge instructions take priority. If symptoms worsen, contact the treating team promptly; for emergencies, seek urgent medical care.

Need medicines or care supplies?

Send us a list of the items your family needs after discharge.

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Frequently asked questions

When should I start preparing for discharge?

Start asking questions before the discharge day, especially about medicines and home equipment.

What medicine information should I bring home?

Ask for an updated list with doses, timing and changes to previous medicines.

Should I ask about follow-up appointments?

Yes. Write down the date, place and who to contact for changes.

Do I need a hospital bed at home?

That depends on the patient’s needs and clinical advice. Ask the treating team what is recommended.

How do I prepare wound care supplies?

Ask which dressings, sizes and changing frequency are recommended, then organise the supplies at home.

What if a medicine is difficult to find?

Ask your pharmacist about availability and sourcing arrangements.

Should I prepare recovery nutrition?

Ask the care team if there are specific eating or feeding needs during recovery.

What should caregivers check first at home?

Make sure medicines, basic supplies, emergency contacts and safe access are ready.

What if symptoms get worse?

Follow the discharge advice and contact the treating team or emergency services as appropriate.

Can National Pharmacy help with the shopping list?

Yes. Send us the recommended product list for a supply enquiry.