Managing the incongruities: the hospital discharge experience for elderly patients, their families, and nurses.
The purpose of this study was to describe the elderly person's hospital discharge experience. Using a grounded theory design, data were generated from patients, families, and nurses. Four major categories emerged: (a) diversity of discharge readiness--patients were ready for discharge, families were not, and nurses were uncertain; (b) family support for patients--families supported the patients, but no support was offered to families; (c) decision making--patients and families were not involved; and (d) multidisciplinary approach--patients and families experienced confusion and distress with lack of team coordination. Managing the incongruities of the discharge process was a struggle for patients and families.
School of Nursing, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver, CO 80262.
J G
JG
Congdon
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D001294:Attitude to Health; D003221:Confusion / Q000523:psychology; D003659:Decision Making, Organizational; D005190:Family / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D006620:Hip Fractures / Q000451:nursing / Q000523:psychology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research; D009741:Nursing Staff, Hospital / Q000523:psychology*; D010347:Patient Care Planning / Q000458:organization & administration*; D010348:Patient Care Team / Q000458:organization & administration; D010351:Patient Discharge; D012944:Social Support