Date of Award

2022

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Department

Occupational Therapy

First Advisor

Mandy Meyer

Abstract

Much attention is paid to clients while they receive services, but after they have met their goals and are ready for their next steps, they can perceive a lack of support and feelings of uncertainty. Returning home from any healthcare setting can be a time of uncertainty for clients. There are many questions to be answered and potential unknowns surrounding the discharge processes. Literature shows there is a need for improving discharge practices to promote client understanding and follow-through to end the treatment experience with the confidence that the client has the tools and resources necessary to be successful in their next environment (Naylor, Shaid, Carpenter, Gass, Levine, Li, Malley, McCauley, Nguyen, Watson, Brock, Mittman, Jack, Mitchell, Callicoatte, Schall & Wlliams, 2017). An extensive literature reviews was conducted along with a needs assessment to gather background data for the development of this product. The results of the literature review and needs assessment revealed the need for areas of improvement within the discharge process across many healthcare settings. These areas included follow-through on treatment, follow-up communication between patient and provider, lack of completed discharge paperwork, and lack of adequate resources given upon discharge based on client needs (Balaban, Weissman, Samuel & Woolhandler, 2008; Kripalani, LeFevre, Phillips, Williams, Basayiah & Baker, 2007). The results of these findings propelled the production of a comprehensive resource guide and supplemental documents to mitigate these adverse outcomes related to current discharge practices. This guide gives clients and healthcare staff a tool to locate resources and enhance the quality of care beyond the treatment process. It is a universal tool with consistent language that is accessible to all healthcare workers within the Monument Healthcare System. Resources found in this guide include transportation services, mental health supports, caregiver services, specialized clinics, and more for clients and supporting healthcare team members to utilize as they navigate the transition from treatment to independence. A Discharge Questionnaire was created to promote collaboration between client and provider on clarifying expectations. Case study activities are also included to foster the implementation of these documents to ensure providers can effectively use the tools included in the product.

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