Discharge summaries must be written, signed, and dated within how many workdays of discharge notification?

• A. 7 workdays
• B. 14 workdays
• C. 20 workdays
• D. 30 workdays

Answer: (C)

Timely, documented discharge summaries are essential for ensuring continuity of care after discharge. The required window is twenty workdays from discharge notification to write, sign, and date the summary. This timeframe balances gathering all relevant details from the hospital course, medications, and follow-up instructions with the need to share information promptly with the next care provider. Shorter windows like seven or fourteen workdays could rush the documentation and risk missing important information, while a longer window like thirty workdays could delay critical handoffs. Twenty workdays provides a practical, consistent standard that supports clear communication and regulatory compliance.