Patients expect to leave the hospital only after their condition has stabilized. Unfortunately, some are discharged before they are ready, which can create serious health risks.
When a patient is discharged too soon, complications may develop that require additional treatment or even hospitalization. Proper discharge planning can help reduce complications after a patient leaves the hospital.
Possible dangers to patients
Hospital care usually involves monitoring symptoms and responding quickly to changes in a patient’s condition. If discharge occurs too early, providers may miss issues that require further attention. Potential risks include:
- Worsening symptoms
- Post-surgical complications
- Medication-related problems
- Undiagnosed infections
- Hospital readmission
These impacts can delay recovery and lead to extensive medical treatment that would otherwise be unnecessary.
Signs that may indicate premature discharge
While every situation is different, certain circumstances may raise concerns about whether discharge occurred too soon. Examples include:
- Constant pain
- Abnormal vital signs
- Worsening symptoms
- Lack of follow-up care instructions
- Continued difficulty performing basic tasks
- Altered mental state
- Signs of active or untreated infection
Patients and family members should ask questions if they are unsure about a discharge decision or do not fully understand the next steps in treatment.
When premature discharge may be malpractice
Not every readmission or medical setback means that negligence occurred. However, health care providers have a duty to make decisions that comply with the accepted standard of care.
When patients suffer harm because symptoms were overlooked, testing was not completed or monitoring was not provided before discharge, there may be grounds for further review. Legal support can help those harmed understand their options and create a plan for moving forward.
Patients who experience complications after leaving the hospital should also seek medical attention promptly. Quick treatment may help reduce the risk of additional harm and improve the chances of a successful recovery.