What must be included in a safe discharge plan?

• A. Only a list of medications with no follow-up.
• B. A note to not contact the patient again.
• C. Follow-up care, stable symptoms, safety supports, medication management if prescribed, and community resources.
• D. A plan to discharge without any supports.

Answer: (C)

The main idea is that a safe discharge plan must be comprehensive and ensure ongoing care and safety after a crisis. The best plan includes follow-up care with a clinician, confirmation that symptoms are stable, safety supports at home or in the community, medication management if any meds are prescribed, and connections to community resources. This combination addresses medical needs, the person’s safety, and practical supports to prevent relapse or readmission. Plans that focus only on medications without follow-up, or that instruct no contact with the patient, or that discharge without any supports, miss essential elements needed to keep someone safe and functioning after a crisis. So the option that includes all these components is the correct approach.