What percentage of patients are rehospitalized within 30 days after discharge from a skilled nursing facility?

• A. 15%
• B. 25%
• C. 35%
• D. 45%

Answer: (B)

Post-acute care transitions carry a notable risk for rehospitalization within 30 days. About 25% of patients discharged from a skilled nursing facility are rehospitalized within that window. This reflects the reality that many SNF patients have multiple chronic conditions, functional impairments, and complex medication regimens, and even well-planned transitions can miss subtle deteriorations. The other percentages are less consistent with typical post-SNF readmission rates—15% would likely underestimate the risk, while 35% or 45% would imply an unusually high rate. To help reduce this risk, ensure prompt follow-up after discharge, thorough medication reconciliation, clear discharge summaries to the primary care team, appropriate home health support, and rapid assessment of warning signs such as dehydration, heart failure symptoms, infection, or falls.