Discharge Planning Assessment Tool (DPAT)

The Discharge Planning Assessment Tool (DPAT) is an assessment tool designed to strategically guide the occupational therapist in planning and implementing client centered treatment for a successful discharge home. The administration of the assessment requires communication and collaborations between the client, care partners, and healthcare providers. The tool measures critical factors known to contribute to failed discharges. The outcomes are designed to guide care providers, the client, and care partners in planning for discharge.

Parts of the assessment include:

Rating Scales

Two scales of confidence:
     Client confidence
     Care partner confidence

Eleven scales related to returning to home and managing care:
     Mobility in home
     Mobility in the community
     Bathroom
     Bedroom
     Kitchen
     Household management
     Medication management
     Nutrition and diet
     Skin and wound management
     Symptom management
     Leisure

DPAT Score Sheet

View a sample of the DPAT (PDF)

Accessing the DPAT

Thank you for your interest in the DPAT. As researchers, we are interested in knowing who is using the DPAT and for what purpose(s). To download the DPAT, we are asking you to complete a form containing information regarding you, your institution and potential use of the DPAT. In addition, we are asking that you agree to be contacted periodically with a survey about the use of the DPAT. We will protect your information by allowing only limited access by the research team. The information will be stored on a password protected computer that can only be accessed by the research team.

Access the DPAT

Additional Resources

Discharge Resources for Clients

Video Resources

Feedback on the DPAT

It helps me in talking with clients (patients post-stroke). The caregiver really responded to being part of the planning. -Occupational therapist working in rehabilitation

I was able to stop a discharge today. When I did the DPAT, I realized he had major problems in medication management, nutrition, and symptom management. (Patient with COPD and CHF). [The] nurse practitioner supported additional days for education. -Occupational therapist in acute care setting

Oh, I guess I need to grocery shop for Dad now. Can he be alone during the day when I work? Dad was so independent before. I never thought he would need l so much help. -Daughter responsible for father discharging from rehabilitation

Page last updated 10:47 AM, July 10, 2020