Questions to ask before a parent leaves the hospital.

What problem brought them in?

Ask the treating team to explain the main problem, what improved, and which issues remain active. A long diagnosis list is not the same as a clear medical story.

What changed at discharge?

Review new medications, stopped medications, dose changes, therapy needs, oxygen, wounds, pending tests, and specialist follow-up. Ask who owns each next step.

Is home actually safe?

Clarify walking ability, fall risk, bathroom setup, caregiver needs, equipment, home nursing, therapy, and what would make home unsafe.

What should trigger a call?

Ask what symptoms should prompt a call to the treating clinician, facility nurse, emergency services, or a return to the hospital.

Questions to ask the treating team

• Which problems are resolved, improving, or still active?
• What medications are new, stopped, temporary, or high risk?
• What follow-up is needed in the next 7-14 days?
• What would make discharge unsafe?
• Who should the family call if symptoms change?

Safety boundary

For urgent symptoms or deterioration, contact the treating clinician, facility nurse/clinician, emergency services, or go to the emergency department. BridgeCare Medicine provides advisory interpretation and preparation support only. It does not replace the treating clinician or medical team.