emDocs - December 11, 2015 - Author: Betz A // Edited by: Koyfman A and Robertson J
"Background:
In a busy emergency department (ED), the discharge process can seem like an afterthought. However, evidence suggests it is one of the most important processes in patient care.
Considering that discharge to home occurs for four out of every five ED patients, this process is performed numerous times during a single shift. The transition of care from ED to home represents a shift in responsibility from healthcare providers to the patient, and, in some cases, family or caregivers. This is a vulnerable time for patients. Gaps in communication and poor understanding of instructions are not uncommon at the time of discharge, and they represent significant threats to patient safety.
When patients do not understand their diagnosis or their recommended post-discharge care, they are at risk for adverse events including:
- Medication non-compliance, avoidable side effects, or overdose
- Dissatisfaction with care which contributes to poor self-efficacy
- Follow-up non-compliance
- Avoidable return visits to the ED
- Worsening of medical condition
- Return visits requiring hospital admission
- Unexpected death
Accordingly, ED discharge is a high frequency, high-stakes event. Education of the discharge process should focus on system-level interventions aimed at minimizing the risks described above..."
http://www.emdocs.net/maximizing-the-safe-discharge/