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From the emergency department to home
1Nursing Department, Letterkenny Institute of Technology, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal, Ireland. mary.dunnion@lyit.ie
Journal of Clinical Nursing
|June 11, 2005
Summary
Communication gaps between emergency departments and primary care hinder effective discharge for older adults. A discharge liaison nurse could improve care continuity and support for this vulnerable population.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Healthcare Management
- Nursing Research
Background:
- Older adults discharged from emergency departments are a vulnerable population requiring seamless care transitions.
- Effective communication and liaison between emergency and primary care are crucial for high-quality care delivery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the management of older adults post-emergency department care and pre-discharge home.
- To identify perceptions and attitudes of emergency department and primary care staff regarding discharge processes.
Main Methods:
- A survey approach utilizing standardized questionnaires (open and closed questions) was employed.
- The study included a purposeful sample of 222 medical and nursing staff from emergency and primary care sectors.
- Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS, and qualitative data underwent content analysis.
Main Results:
- Primary care staff reported unsatisfactory communication and lack of support for older adults post-discharge.
- Emergency department staff perceived communication levels more favorably than primary care staff.
- Both sectors agreed on the potential usefulness of a discharge liaison nurse in the emergency department.
Conclusions:
- Communication difficulties identified in hospital discharge also exist in emergency department settings.
- A multidisciplinary approach, including referral guidelines and staff training, is needed to enhance care quality and continuity for older adults.