Which statement best describes the focus of discharge goals and outcomes?

• A. Physician-driven
• B. System oriented
• C. Patient oriented
• D. Cost-driven

Answer: (C)

Discharge goals should be designed around the patient’s safety, comprehension, and ability to manage medications and symptoms at home. When outcomes are patient-oriented, the plan includes teaching the patient what to monitor, how to take each medication correctly, how to manage side effects, and when to seek help, plus arranging support in the home and follow-up care. This approach yields better adherence, fewer readmissions, and higher satisfaction because it aligns with the patient’s daily life and values.

While physician input, system efficiency, and cost considerations matter for overall care, they don’t address the essential post-discharge ability to function safely and independently, which is why patient-oriented discharge goals are the best choice.