Patient Experiences in the Transition from Hospital to Home

The purpose of this study was to describe patients’ and caregivers’ experiences with the transition from hospital to home. A qualitative grounded theory approach was used for the study. Data were collected through unstructured interviews and through involvement in the discharge process at the hospital. The sample was drawn from adult patients and their home caregivers hospitalized on a family practice inpatient service at a rural hospital. Twelve patients and 9 family members were interviewed post-discharge in patient’s or caregiver’s homes and extended care facilities or other locations of their choice. Data analysis proceeded throughout data collection and after data collection was finished. Interviews were transcribed, reviewed, and coded for content related to the patient and caregiver’s transition experiences. Findings indicated that there were deficiencies in coordination of care, communication with patients and families around planning for discharge, and in the consistency of discharge teaching. Smooth transitions from hospital to home are complex processes requiring clear, accurate communication and coordination of activities by all care providers. Patient and family centeredness in the decisions about discharge is also imperative. Comprehensive discharge teaching is essential so that patients and families can manage anticipated and unanticipated symptoms after discharge. Multiple programs are being tested nationwide to address these deficiencies. Future directions for research include evaluation of the outcomes produced by transitional care models. No embarg