Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN) Practice Exam

When developing a discharge plan, what is MOST essential to consider?

1. Patient's medical history

2. Patient's previous lifestyle

3. Current medications

4. Availability of transportation

The correct answer is: Patient's previous lifestyle

When developing a discharge plan, considering the patient's previous lifestyle is crucial because it provides insight into their habits, activities, and living conditions that have shaped their current health status. Understanding a patient's previous lifestyle can help the healthcare team tailor the discharge plan to better align with the patient's daily routines and set realistic expectations for post-discharge care. This consideration may include factors such as their social support system, ability to engage in physical activity, dietary preferences, and any potential barriers they might face in adhering to the new care plan. An effective discharge plan leverages this information to foster a smoother transition back to home or community living, ensuring it accommodates the patient's personal context. In contrast, while a patient's medical history, current medications, and availability of transportation are important factors to consider, they serve more as the groundwork for understanding health needs and logistical challenges, rather than actively aligning the patient's discharge strategy with their day-to-day reality and lifestyle adjustments. Focusing on the patient's previous lifestyle ultimately strengthens their chances of success in managing their health after leaving the healthcare setting.