Discharge processes and medicines communication from the patient perspective: A qualitative study at an internal medicines ward in Norway

Health Expectations

Stine Eidhammer Rognan¹  Sofia Kälvemark Sporrong²  Kajsa Bengtsson³  Helene Berg Lie³  Liv Mathiesen³  Morten Mowé⁴  Yvonne Andersson⁵ 

[1] Department of Pharmaceutical Services Oslo Hospital Pharmacy Oslo Norway;Department of Pharmacy University of Copenhagen Copenhagen Denmark;Department of Pharmacy University of Oslo Oslo Norway;Division of Medicine Oslo University Hospital Oslo Norway;Hospital Pharmacies Enterprise South Eastern Norway Oslo Norway;

关键词: hospital discharge;    medicines communication;    observational study;    patient empowerment;    patient perspective;    patient‐centred care;   

DOI  :  10.1111/hex.13232

来源: DOAJ

【 摘 要 】

Abstract Background Patients are expected to participate in the hospital discharge process, assume self‐management after discharge and communicate relevant information to their general practitioner; however, patients report that they are not being sufficiently empowered to take on these responsibilities. The aim of this study was to explore and understand the discharge process with a focus on medicines communication, from the patient perspective. Methods Patients were included at a hospital ward, observed during health‐care personnel encounters on the day of discharge and interviewed 1‐2 weeks after discharge. A process analysis was performed, and a content analysis combined data from observations and data from patient interviews focusing on medicines communication in the discharge process. Results A total of 9 patients were observed on the day of discharge, equalling 67.5 hours of observations. The analysis resulted in the following themes: (a) the observed discharge process; (b) patient initiatives; and (c) the patient role. The medicines communication in the discharge process appeared unstructured. Various patient preferences and needs were revealed. The elements of the best practice structured discharge conversation were observed; however, some patients did not have a discharge conversation at all. Conclusions The study contributes to a broader understanding of the discharge process, how patients experience it, including their role. It is evident that the discharge process is not always tailored to meet the patients’ needs. More focus on early patient involvement and communication, in order to better prepare patients for self‐management of their medications, is important for their health outcomes.

【 授权许可】

Unknown