What should discharge planning include?

• A. Only a discharge summary.
• B. A plan to extend the hold as needed.
• C. Ensuring continuity of care and connections to aftercare services.
• D. No follow-up arrangements.

Answer: (C)

Discharge planning centers on ensuring continuity of care and connections to aftercare services. The goal is to move from the hold into ongoing community treatment smoothly, so the person can continue recovery with coordinated support. This includes arranging outpatient treatment, medication management, and crisis resources, as well as practical supports like transportation, housing referrals if needed, and involvement of family or caregivers. It also specifies follow-up appointments, who will coordinate care, and what steps to take if symptoms recur. The other options don’t fit because a discharge summary alone doesn’t ensure ongoing treatment, extending the hold delays needed care, and having no follow-up arrangements leaves the person without essential support after discharge.