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Joining education and service in exploring discharge needs
A A Schultz1, P A Geary, F S Casey
1Maine Medical Center, Portland 04102, USA.
Journal of Community Health Nursing
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Older adults discharged from hospitals need more support at home. This study involved follow-up home visits to assess their health care needs after acute care, especially for those without community referrals.
Area of Science:
- Nursing
- Gerontology
- Healthcare Management
Background:
- Continuity of nursing care post-discharge is crucial.
- Shortened hospital stays may increase care needs for older adults.
- Limited understanding exists regarding older adults' home healthcare needs after acute care discharge, particularly without community referrals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the experiences and healthcare needs of older adults post-discharge.
- To identify challenges faced by older adults returning home from acute care settings.
Main Methods:
- A demonstration project was conducted.
- Follow-up home visits were performed for older adults discharged to their homes from acute care.
- Collaboration between the University of Southern Maine College of Nursing and Maine Medical Center Nursing Service Department.
Main Results:
- The study focused on understanding the specific and changing healthcare needs of this demographic.
- Data was gathered on the early days at home following discharge.
- Insights were gained into the experiences of older adults discharged without community referrals.
Conclusions:
- Further research is needed to understand the evolving healthcare requirements of older adults post-discharge.
- The findings highlight the importance of continued care and support beyond the hospital setting.
- This project underscores the need for effective discharge planning and community integration for older patients.