NCLEX Question for Discharge Planning

NCLEX Review Question
At what time during a patient’s hospital stay does discharge planning begin?

a.Admission
b.Twenty-four hours prior to discharge
c.The shift prior to discharge
d.By the third hospital day

Correct Answer: A
Admission
Rationale: To prepare for early discharge and the possible need for follow-up in the home, discharge planning begins with the patient’s admission.

Twenty-four hours prior to discharge
Rationale: Discharge planning requires identification of patient needs and anticipatory guidance and is not relegated to a specific time for beginning.

The shift prior to discharge
Rationale: Discharge planning requires communication with and cooperation of the patient, family, and health care team and is not relegated to a specific time for beginning.

By the third hospital day
Rationale: Discharge planning may require involvement of personnel and agencies in the planning process and is not relegated to a specific day of hospital stay.

Posted in: MSN NCLEX