Free Nursing Discharge Care Plan Template

Nursing Discharge Care Plan

Patient Information

Patient Name: Tom Walter
Date of Birth: January 15, 1975
Discharge Date: December 15, 2050
Diagnosis: Total Hip Replacement (Right)
Discharge Destination: Home
Primary Care Physician: Dr. Emmy Green
Phone Number: 222 555 7777
Emergency Contact: Berta Flatley
Contact Number: 222 555 7777


1. Medications and Instructions

Medication Name

Dosage

Frequency

Instructions

Pain Reliever (Ibuprofen)

200 mg

Every 8 hours

Take with food to avoid stomach upset.

Antibiotic (Amoxicillin)

500 mg

Every 12 hours

Complete the full 7-day course, even if symptoms improve.

Blood Thinner (Aspirin)

81 mg

Once daily

Take at the same time every day, preferably with breakfast.

Stool Softener (Docusate Sodium)

100 mg

Once daily

To prevent constipation due to pain medication.


2. Wound Care Instructions

  • Wound Site: Right hip incision

  • Care Instructions:

    • Keep the wound clean and dry.

    • Change the dressing every 48 hours or sooner if it becomes wet or dirty.

    • Use sterile gauze pads to cover the wound.

    • Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment if instructed by the physician.

  • Signs of Infection to Watch For:

    • Increased redness, warmth, or swelling around the incision.

    • Pus or drainage from the wound.

    • Fever above 100°F (38°C).


3. Activity Restrictions and Instructions

  • Weight-Bearing Status: No weight-bearing on the right leg for 4 weeks. Use crutches for mobility.

  • Movement Restrictions:

    • Avoid bending the hip more than 90 degrees.

    • Do not cross legs while sitting or lying down.

    • Limit walking to short distances, and rest frequently.

  • Exercise and Rehabilitation:

    • Start physical therapy on December 17, 2050 (contact the rehab center at [YOUR COMPANY NAME] for scheduling).

    • Follow the prescribed therapy exercises for strengthening and range of motion.

    • Do not lift objects heavier than 5 pounds until cleared by the physical therapist.


4. Follow-Up Appointments

Appointment Type

Date

Time

Location

Primary Care Follow-up

December 22, 2050

10:00 AM

[YOUR COMPANY NAME] Clinic, 1234 Health St.

Physical Therapy

December 17, 2050

1:00 PM

[YOUR COMPANY NAME] Rehab Center, 5678 Wellness Rd.

Orthopedic Specialist

January 5, 2051

2:30 PM

[YOUR COMPANY NAME] Orthopedic Center, 9101 Joint Blvd.


5. Emergency Instructions

  • Signs of Complications to Watch For:

    • Sudden or severe pain in the hip or leg.

    • Swelling or tightness in the calf (possible blood clot).

    • Shortness of breath or chest pain.

  • When to Call for Help:

    • If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, call [YOUR COMPANY NAME] at [YOUR COMPANY NUMBER] or seek immediate medical attention.


6. Additional Information

  • Home Support and Assistance:

    • Family members are encouraged to assist with daily activities like meal preparation and transportation to appointments.

    • A home health nurse will visit on December 20, 2050, to monitor recovery and assist with wound care.

  • Patient Education:

    • Avoid sitting or lying down for long periods; change positions frequently to reduce the risk of blood clots.

    • Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet to aid in the healing process.

Prepared by: [YOUR NAME]
Email: [YOUR EMAIL]

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