How to Teach Discharge Planning

Nurses should be taught that discharge planning is an essential component of a patient's hospital care. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality stated in 2005 that the risks of complications and worsening ill-health are greatest during the transition from hospital to home. Discharge planning involves teaching the patient and his family to self-care, assessing the home environment for hazards and ensuring that referrals for follow-up care are in place. The World Health Organization advises that nurses discharge planning should be started as soon as possible.

Instructions

• 1

  Teach nurses to assess the patient's needs at the time of leaving hospital. Nurses should identify areas of care that required assistance in the hospital. Discuss with the patient and his family what can be managed at home and what will need outside help. Make a note of these areas of need on the discharge care plan.

• 2

  Show the patient each medication she will take at home. Ensure she understands what it is for and how to take it.

• 3

  Discuss any specific worries the patient and his family may have. Deal with these before the patient leaves hospital.

• 4

  Make any referrals before the patient is discharged. Make a note of each referral and contact details for the patient's reference at home.

• 5

  Explain to the patient what she should do should she become ill or need further help at home. Address potential problems that are specific to the patient's condition.