What is often assessed to determine a patient’s readiness for discharge from therapy?

To determine a patient's readiness for discharge from therapy, achievement of established functional goals is a critical assessment. This approach is grounded in the principles of patient-centered care and objective measurements of progress. Functional goals are tailored to individual patient needs and circumstances, providing a clear framework for what the patient aims to achieve through therapy.

When patients meet these goals, it indicates that they have gained the necessary skills, strength, or mobility required for independent functioning or safe continuation of care elsewhere. This assessment not only reflects the effectiveness of the therapy received but also helps ensure that the patient can perform daily activities safely and effectively upon discharge.

While other factors like patient feedback, length of therapy, and pain levels can provide valuable insights into the therapy process and patient experience, they do not serve as definitive indicators of readiness for discharge in the same way that the achievement of functional goals does. Functional goals are the measurable endpoints that signify a patient is ready to transition out of therapy.