Comprehensive discharge planning for hospitalized elderly: a pilot study
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 3, 2026

Assessment of Dependence in Activities of Daily Living Among Older Patients in an Acute Care Unit
Published on: September 30, 2020
1University of Pennsylvania, School of Nursing, Philadelphia.
Abstract:
The purpose of this randomized clinical trial was to examine the effects of a comprehensive discharge planning protocol implemented by a gerontological nurse specialist as compared to the hospital's general discharge planning procedure. There were no statistically significant differences between groups in length of initial patient hospitalization or in rates of posthospital infections. A statistically significant difference was found when groups were compared on the number of subjects rehospitalized during the study period. The findings of this pilot study reinforce the need for continued study of the impact of comprehensive discharge planning for hospitalized elderly.
Related Concept Videos
Planning Nursing Care I
Discharge Summary Forms
Here's a detailed look at the key components and guidelines for preparing a discharge summary:
Documentation in Long-Term and Home Healthcare Setting
Long-Term Care Facilities