Internist how-to

How to Write a Discharge Plan That Prevents Readmission

Good discharges prevent readmissions.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Good discharges prevent readmissions. In short: reconcile; arrange; coordinate, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Reconcile medications.

  2. Arrange follow-up appointments.

  3. Coordinate home services.

  4. Teach warning signs.

  5. Write a clear summary.

  6. Call high-risk patients.

Safety reminders for internists

  • Reconcile medications
  • Follow infection control
  • Use structured handoffs
  • Prevent falls and blood clots in hospital

Hospitalist · Internal medicine · Differential diagnosis · Comorbidity · Polypharmacy · Rounds: see the full internist glossary.

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