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Action research sets the stage to improve discharge preparation
E M Suderman1, J V Deatrich, L S Johnson
1Children's Hospital, Health Sciences Centre, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.
Pediatric Nursing
|May 25, 2002
Summary
Parents want better discharge preparation for children with respiratory issues. This study highlights key themes like learning, teaching content, and timing to improve care transitions and reduce hospitalization impacts.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nursing
- Healthcare Research
- Respiratory Care
Background:
- Effective discharge preparation is crucial for children with respiratory problems.
- Current discharge practices may not fully address parental needs and concerns.
- Action research offers a collaborative approach to improve nursing practice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore parents' perceptions of discharge preparation for children with respiratory conditions.
- To involve bedside nurses in research and practice change through action research.
- To identify key themes influencing the discharge process from the parents' perspective.
Main Methods:
- An action research project involving seven bedside nurses.
- Data collection through home and telephone interviews with 20 families.
- Questionnaires administered to non-interviewing families.
Main Results:
- Four major themes emerged: the parent as learner, content of teaching, timing of discharge, and post-hospitalization impact.
- Parents' learning needs and the effectiveness of teaching content were significant factors.
- The timing of discharge and the lingering effects of hospitalization were key parental concerns.
Conclusions:
- Parental involvement in learning and appropriate discharge timing are critical for successful care transitions.
- Action research effectively engaged bedside nurses in practice improvement initiatives.
- Findings provide valuable insights for enhancing discharge planning for pediatric respiratory patients.