Patterns of patient coping following hospital discharge from medical and surgical units: A pilot study

A pilot study was conducted to determine the feasibility of a longitudinal investigation of patients' coping during the early postdischarge period. Recruitment was conducted on a general medical unit and a surgical orthopedic unit. Forty-four participants were recruited with 95% retention. Demographic characteristics plus measures of discharge risk and perceived readiness (expected coping) were collected before discharge. Measures of coping (experienced) and the use of supports and services were collected on the first day postdischarge, the end of the first week, and during weeks 3 and 5. Considerable variability was evident in coping scores, and not all participants exhibited improvement over time. Four patterns of coping were identified: ongoing recovery, initial shock, bumpy road, and progressive decline. Further investigation is required to validate the observed coping patterns. A better understanding of conditions affecting patient coping during the transition from hospital to home will support efforts to reduce unplanned use of acute care services.