What elements belong in a proper discharge summary in PA practice?

• A. Reason for termination, progress, current status, risk assessment, and referrals or follow-up plans.
• B. Payment details and insurance codes only.
• C. Client's dietary preferences during therapy.
• D. Personal opinions about the client.

Answer: (A)

In PA practice, a proper discharge summary should communicate the rationale for ending care, document progress toward treatment goals, describe the patient’s current status, assess ongoing risk, and outline referrals or follow-up plans. This set of elements ensures continuity of care, provides a clear record for subsequent clinicians, and supports accountability and legal completeness. Administrative items like payment details and insurance codes aren’t part of the clinical summary. Dietary preferences aren’t typically included unless directly related to treatment, and personal opinions about the client don’t belong in the medical record.