What should happen before you leave the hospital

Information for the public

When you are well enough to leave hospital, you should have an assessment (called a functional assessment) to identify any physical, sensory or communication problems, emotional or psychological problems, and any social care or equipment needs that you may have.

Your healthcare team should consider how the results of the assessment could affect your daily life when you leave hospital.

Your rehabilitation goals should be discussed and agreed with you (and your family/carer if you agree).

Your healthcare team should organise any referrals for further care or rehabilitation before you leave the hospital. You should be given a copy of your critical care discharge summary, which is a letter sent to your GP with details of your critical care stay and the contact details of the person coordinating your rehabilitation and your rehabilitation plan.

A member of your healthcare team should make sure you (and your family/carer if appropriate) understand what your continuing rehabilitation will involve and what other things you might face during your recovery after you are discharged from hospital.

Information and support

You should be given the following information. Your family and/or carer should also be given the information, if you agree.

Your physical recovery, based on the rehabilitation goals agreed while you were on the ward (if applicable).
Diet and any continuing treatment.
Managing normal daily activities, including looking after yourself and getting back to your daily routine.
Driving, returning to work, housing, any benefits to which you may be entitled.
Local support services and groups.
General information on what to expect after you are discharged from hospital and how your family/carer can support you. This should take into account your needs, as well as those of your family and/or carer.