[Nursing experience: discharge planning for a disabled elderly patient]

This case study describes the comprehensive and continuous care provided to an elderly patient whose self-care ability had been lost in a traffic accident. During the nursing period, from March 4th 2004 to May 18th 2004, we utilized the literature on the health problems of the elderly, concepts of discharge planning, and a comprehensive nursing assessment to confirm that the main nursing issues were clearance of a blocked airway, and impaired mobility. We also helped caregivers to cope with the problems of role strain. During the nursing process, we placed particular emphasis on management and preparation for care after discharge, the training of a maid, and psychological support for the family. The experience enabled surgical ward nurses who were already used to fast discharges of patients to gain a better understanding of discharge planning in complex cases involving the disabled elderly.