Which item is least likely to be included in a patient education plan?

• A. Assessment of learning needs
• B. Setting goals
• C. Teaching methods
• D. Discharge disposition planning

Answer: (D)

A patient education plan focuses on what the patient needs to learn, the goals for learning, and how that education will be delivered. Assessing learning needs helps tailor content to the patient’s current knowledge, literacy, and readiness. Setting goals provides clear, measurable outcomes so progress can be tracked. Choosing teaching methods determines how information is conveyed—through demonstrations, teach-back, written materials, or one-on-one instruction. Discharge disposition planning, on the other hand, is about deciding where the patient will go after discharge and what services or supports are needed to continue care safely. It’s essential for overall care but not a core part of the education plan, which is why it’s the least likely item to be included.