Veterinary patient admission and discharge procedure
SOP template
Check this template against your local regulations and your own policies before you use it.
| SOP no. | Version | Effective date | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Owner | Approver | Review date |
Purpose
To admit and discharge every patient safely, with informed consent and clear instructions.
Scope
Every patient admitted for surgery, procedures or hospital care.
Responsibilities
| Role | Responsibility |
|---|---|
| Vet nurse or receptionist | Admits the patient, checks consent and gives discharge instructions. |
| Vet | Explains the procedure and risks, and writes the discharge instructions. |
Procedure
Check the patient and the owner
Confirm the patient’s identity, the procedure, the owner’s contact number and any fasting instructions.
Get consent and an estimate
Go through the consent form and estimate with the owner, and get their signature.
Caution: The owner must understand the risks. Ask the vet to speak with them if they have questions.
Identify the patient
Fit an ID collar with the patient’s name and number, and record any belongings.
Keep the owner informed
Call the owner after the procedure and when the patient is ready to go home.
Discharge
Give written instructions on care, medications, feeding, wound care and warning signs, and check the owner understands.
Book the follow-up
Book the recheck or suture removal before they leave.
Records
- The signed consent and estimate.
- The discharge instructions given.
Related documents
- Surgical safety checklist
Revision history
| Version | Date | What changed | Approved by |
|---|---|---|---|
