Discharge Preparation - Agency for Integrated Care

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Your loved one will be discharged soon. To ensure a smooth hospital discharge, you will need to know the steps like understanding your loved one’s medical needs, scheduling follow-ups, and preparing your home for recovery.

What should I do before the discharge?

Things to take note of	Checklist to take note before discharge
Care arrangement	Has your loved one’s health condition changed or worsened? Are you able to manage or support your loved one with daily activities such as showering, eating or moving around? If caring for your loved one at home is challenging, inform healthcare professionals so they can help advise on alternative care options.
Medications	Has your loved one’s medication routine changed? Are there any special precautions to take note when giving medication? Is there any medication to be taken in an emergency? Do you need help understanding your loved one’s medication? If you’re unsure about giving medication safely, speak to the hospital pharmacist for guidance. Community services such as Home Nursing may also help with medication management.
Follow-up appointments	Does your loved one have many medical appointments after discharge? Are you able to view all your loved one’s appointment on a digital app? Do you know if any preparation is needed before loved one’s medical appointments, like fasting? If you are at work and unable to bring your loved one for medical appointments, who can help you? Do you need to arrange transport in advance for appointments?
In case of emergency	Do you know the signs to look out for when your loved one is unwell? Do you know when and where to seek immediate medical attention? Are you aware of the important contact numbers to reach out for respective support? If you are unsure, please call 995 for an ambulance. Emergencies can cause panic, especially if you’re unprepared. Being ready helps you to stay in control and focus on the necessary actions.
Resources for you and your loved one	Do you have enough supplies (medication, feeds wound care materials etc) until the next medical appointment? Do you have the necessary referral forms, discharge summary, medical appointment slips? Do you need a medical certificate for family care leave? Are you aware of the community resources that you can prepare and tap on for caregiver training? Are you aware of the community care services to support you and your loved one? Before you bring your loved one home, have a chat with the discharge nurse to get helpful resources and ask about delivery options that can make things more convenient. You can also explore AIC’s training catalogue to pick up caregiving skills and feel more confident in your role. If you need extra help, use the Care Services Recommender to find community services that can support you along your caregiving journey.

How do I manage care at home?

Things to take note of	Checklist
Cooking & Feeding	Are there new dietary or fluid restrictions advised from the doctor? Can your loved one chew and swallow food safely? If not, have you discussed with your healthcare professionals about modified textures or tube feeding regime? Do you need to attend training to support your loved one’s nutrition?
Moving & Transferring	Can your loved one move safely on their own or do they need help? Did the therapist prescribe any new medical devices g. walking stick, pressure relieving mattress? Have you checked with the therapist about Senior’s Mobility and Enabling Fund (SMF) for these devices? Are you confident in helping them transfer between bed, chair or toilet? Is the home environment safe and accessible for your loved one?
Transportation	Does your loved one need transport for follow-up appointments or therapy? Can you safely transport your loved one by bus or car? Can your loved one travel in a regular vehicle or need special transport?
Toileting	Is your loved one incontinent? If yes, have you consulted nurses about the needed supplies and toileting care for your loved one? Can your loved one use the toilet independently? Will they need a commode or toilet seat? Have you considered home modifications such as installing grab bars?
Showering & Personal Grooming	Can you safely transfer your loved one to the toilet alone? Can your loved one shower independently or do they need help? Will you or other family members assist with showering or, do you need to engage a service?
Managing Medication	Does your loved one have a safe place to store medications? Does your loved one need help in taking medications as prescribed? Do you need help tracking or organising medications at home?
Shopping	Do you have a list of essential items to buy regularly like groceries? Who can help with this if you are unavailable? Have you considered online ordering and delivery if you are short of time or energy? Have you stocked up for a week before your loved one comes home?
Finances	Can you manage out-of-pocket costs for care not covered by Medisave and insurance? Who will handle bills and payments for your loved one’s care? Have you checked the Care Services Recommender for available financial aid?

Where can I get more support?

Guides & Resources for practical tools and information for your caregiving journey
Care services and financial support suitable for yourself and your loved one
Financial support to help with your caregiving expenses
Learn to care better through workshops tailored to your needs