Readiness for hospital discharge post-initial invasive percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage: A mixed-methods...

Area of Science:

• Medical Sciences
• Nursing
• Patient Care

Background:

• Hospital discharge readiness is crucial for safe patient transitions.
• Periprosthetic transhepatic biliary drainage (PTBD) patients require specific discharge considerations.
• Understanding perceptions of readiness among patients, caregivers, and providers is essential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore perceptions of hospital discharge readiness among patients undergoing PTBD, their family caregivers, and healthcare providers.
• To identify factors influencing discharge readiness in this population.
• To inform strategies for optimizing the discharge process.

Main Methods:

• Convergent mixed-method design incorporating quantitative and qualitative data.
• Purposive sampling of 30 patients for a readiness scale and 30 participants (patients, caregivers, providers) for interviews.
• Descriptive and thematic analyses, with joint displays for mixed analysis.

Main Results:

• Overall high readiness for hospital discharge was reported.
• The 'expected support' subscale scored highest, while 'personal status' scored lowest.
• Key themes included improved health, self-care knowledge (biliary drainage care, diet, symptom observation), and homecare preparedness.

Conclusions:

• While patients generally feel ready for discharge, personal status needs further assessment and support.
• Healthcare providers should refine discharge criteria and individualize patient needs.
• Collaborative preparation among patients, families, and providers enhances safe transitions.