Discharge Survey

The Discharge Survey gathers critical feedback from patients who are being discharged from a hospital, surgical center, or inpatient facility. The transition from inpatient to home care is one of the highest-risk moments in the patient journey, and understanding how well your discharge process prepares patients for self-management can directly reduce readmission rates. This template evaluates the clarity of discharge instructions, patient confidence in managing their condition at home, understanding of new medications, and awareness of warning signs that should prompt them to seek emergency care.

The survey covers the full discharge experience including how much advance notice the patient received, whether they felt rushed or had adequate time to ask questions, and whether a family member or caregiver was included in the discharge education. Patients rate the quality of written discharge instructions, their understanding of activity restrictions and dietary guidelines, wound care instructions if applicable, and the plan for follow-up appointments. A dedicated section assesses whether the patient knows whom to call if they have questions or concerns after leaving the facility.

Designed for hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, rehabilitation facilities, and skilled nursing facilities, this survey supports compliance with CMS discharge planning requirements and HCAHPS survey domains. The data helps discharge planners, case managers, and nursing leadership identify where education gaps exist and implement targeted interventions to improve patient preparedness, reduce preventable readmissions, and strengthen the overall care transition process.