Abstract

MARQUES, Rita Margarida Dourado. The readmission of dependent patients in emergency department: study of some variables. Rev. Enf. Ref. [online]. 2011, vol.serIII, n.3, pp.95-104. ISSN 0874-0283.

Background: The readmission of dependent patients to the emergency department is a reality in our society, often associated with difficulties experienced by caregivers at home. Objectives: To determine the readmission rate and factors related to the readmission. Methods: In this quantitative analytical study, an interview was carried out with 107 dependent patients and their caregivers, who used the emergency department of a central Lisbon hospital from April to July, and a telephone interview one month after the discharge. Results: About 28% of the studied patients returned to the hospital within 28 days after discharge (readmission). Older and widowed people were the most readmitted to the emergency department rather than more dependent patients. Economic difficulties, of carrying out household chores and providing direct care to patients were the most reported by caregivers.  Conclusion:  Lack of information and providing direct care to patients are difficulties reported by  caregivers; thus, nurses play a crucial role in preparing for discharge home and learning the  skills for delivering care.

Keywords : caregivers; dependent; recurrence; emergency.

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