Discharge planning

Developing and Evaluating Nurse led Discharge in Acute Medicine

Research Audit and Clinical Practice, Volume 13, Issue 4, Pages 149 - 194 (2014)

Abstract

Aims: To develop and evaluate nurse-led discharge criteria for a clinical decision unit in a large NHS Foundation Trust

Method: Criteria for nurse led discharge were developed for patients presenting to hospital via the emergency department with chest pain, headache and deliberate self poisoning. Data on length of stay on CDU and readmission were collected for these patient groups during a 2 month period, during which the nurse-led criteria were introduced. Following introduction of the criteria a survey was conducted to evaluate staff opinions of the new system.

Results: A trend towards reduced length of stay was noted during the month after introduction of nurse-led discharge (18.26hrs vs 20 hours p=0.582). Our staff survey indicated that the process was popular and has been continued since the study period.

Conclusion: Nurse-led discharge using defined criteria is feasible and popular with staff in an acute medical setting.

Please subscribe to see more.
Subscribe
Already a member? Log in here

Developing and Evaluating Nurse led Discharge in Acute Medicine Read More

Developing Occupational Therapy Best Practice Guidelines for Acute Medical Services

Society Pages, Volume 7, Issue 2, Pages 61 - 104 (2008)

Occupational Therapists began exploring their role in Acute Medicine in the late 1990’s.1 A decade later the presence of Occupational Therapists in accident & emergency departments and acute medical units is seen as routine. The literature and evidence base to support this, however, has not progressed as rapidly. With few guidelines to support practice the authors produced a document locally to promote standardisation of good practice and equity of treatment within all relevant NHS Lothian and NHS Borders sites. A table illustrates the specialist skills necessary for Occupational Therapy in Acute Medicine and appendices outline components of various assessments. It is hoped that as therapists progress through the flow chart they can utilise further sections of the guidelines related to specific assessments.

Developing Occupational Therapy Best Practice Guidelines for Acute Medical Services Read More

Shopping Basket
Scroll to Top

Start typing and press enter to search

Start typing and press enter to search