What does it indicate when a discharge is noted as AMA?

When a discharge is noted as AMA, it indicates that the patient is leaving the healthcare facility against medical advice. This situation arises when the patient chooses to leave before the healthcare provider determines that they are ready or their condition has sufficiently improved. The term "AMA" stands for "Against Medical Advice," highlighting the patient's decision to discontinue the treatment or care process recommended by the healthcare team. This can reflect a patient's autonomy in making decisions about their own health, even if it goes against the advice of medical providers.

The other options do not accurately reflect what AMA means. For instance, suggesting that the patient is fully recovered does not align with the concept of leaving against medical advice, as it implies readiness for discharge. The notion of being transferred rather than discharged overlooks the key element of the patient's choice to leave against the provider's guidance. Lastly, describing the discharge as temporary contradicts the permanence indicated in the term AMA, as it signifies a final decision made by the patient to depart from care.