Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 27, 2026
07:27
Exergaming in Older People Living with HIV Improves Balance, Mobility and Ameliorates Some Aspects of Frailty
Published on: October 6, 2016
Evaluating social work discharge planning services for elderly people: access, complexity, and outcome
J S Oktay1, D M Steinwachs, J Mamon
1University of Maryland School of Social Work, Baltimore 21201.
Health & Social Work
|November 1, 1992
Summary
Hospital social workers play a key role in discharge planning for elderly patients. This study found that while few elderly patients receive these services, those who do benefit from effective planning, reducing unmet post-hospital needs.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Social Work
- Healthcare Management
Background:
- The role of hospital social workers in discharge planning for elderly individuals is crucial.
- Effective discharge planning is essential for successful transitions from hospital to home for older adults.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the provision of social work services to elderly patients in need.
- To evaluate the professional nature of hospital discharge planning.
- To determine the effectiveness of social work discharge planning for elderly patients returning home.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 1,100 elderly patients across five Baltimore hospitals.
- Data collection through social worker interviews, post-discharge patient phone surveys, and medical record reviews.
Main Results:
- Only a minority of elderly patients returning home received hospital social work services.
- Patients receiving social work services were more likely to have post-hospital needs.
- Social work discharge planning was effective in addressing unmet needs in nursing, medication, and physical therapy.
- While most discharge planning utilized professional skills, 28% were considered routine.
Conclusions:
- Hospital social work services, though not universally provided, are effective for elderly patients needing post-discharge support.
- Targeted social work intervention can significantly reduce unmet needs for elderly patients transitioning home.
Related Concept Videos
01:21Planning Nursing Care I
The planning phase of the nursing process helps nurses set priorities, outline patient-centered goals and expected outcomes, and tailor nursing interventions to align with the aligned care plan. Through the planning phase, the nurse applies critical thinking skills to align and develop interventions according to the patient's needs. It provides continuity of care allowing patients to receive the maximum benefit from treatment. It serves as a pilot plan for allocating individual staff to a...
01:29Planning Nursing Care II
A nursing care plan can present in two forms: informal and formal. Informal is a care plan for the individual use of the nurse and goals they wish to accomplish during their shift. Informal care plans are not included in the patient chart. A formal nursing care plan is a written or computerized guide that organizes patient care. It is further subdivided into two: standardized and individualized care plans. Standardized care plans are pre-populated care plans for specific patient populations,...
01:15Nursing Evaluation
The evaluation stage signals the end of the nursing process. The nurse gathers evaluative data to assess whether or not the patient has attained the expected results. Whereas the nurse collects data in the nursing assessment to identify the patient's health concerns, the evaluation stage data determines if the indicated health issues are resolved. Evaluative data collection includes two sections: the data acquired to evaluate patient outcomes and the time criteria for data collection.
Section...
Section...
01:15Methods of Documentation VI: Case Management Model
The case management model is a multidisciplinary approach that involves healthcare professionals from diverse disciplines, such as physicians, nurses, therapists, social workers, and pharmacists, working collaboratively to address the various needs of patients. Each healthcare professional brings unique expertise and perspectives, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of the patient's condition and tailoring treatment plans accordingly.
For example, a patient with a chronic illness...
For example, a patient with a chronic illness...
01:31Discharge Summary Forms
The discharge summary is crucial as it enables a smooth transition from a healthcare facility to a patient's home or another care setting. This critical document facilitates seamless continuity of care, ensuring patients receive the necessary support and attention.
Here's a detailed look at the key components and guidelines for preparing a discharge summary:
Here's a detailed look at the key components and guidelines for preparing a discharge summary:
01:29Documentation in Long-Term and Home Healthcare Setting
Documentation in long-term care facilities and home healthcare settings is crucial for ensuring continuous, coordinated, and comprehensive care for patients. Each setting has its specific documentation processes and tools:
Long-Term Care Facilities
Long-Term Care Facilities