D.C. Code § 21-2231.03: Hospital discharge plan.

(a)

As soon as practicable before the patient's discharge, the hospital shall:

(1)

Consult with the lay caregiver and the patient or authorized representative regarding the lay caregiver's capabilities and limitations;

(2)

Provide a copy of the discharge plan to the lay caregiver;

(3)

Consult with, and provide instruction to, the lay caregiver regarding the patient's discharge plan; and

(4)

Provide contact information for any health care, community resources, and long-term care services and supports necessary to carry out the patient's discharge plan.

(b)

At a minimum, the discharge plan described in subsection (a) of this section shall include:

(1)

The name and contact information of the lay caregiver;

(2)

A description of all after-care tasks necessary to maintain the patient's ability to reside in the patient's residence; and

(3)

Contact information for any health care, community resources, and long-term care services and supports necessary to carry out the patient's discharge plan.

(c)

(1)

At a minimum, the instruction to the lay caregiver described in subsection (a) of this section shall include:

(A)

An opportunity for a demonstration at the hospital of the after-care tasks; and

(B)

An opportunity for the lay caregiver and the patient to ask questions and receive answers to questions about the after-care tasks; and

(2)

The instruction provided shall be documented in the patient's medical record and shall include, at minimum, the date, time, and contents of the instruction.