Group Pink -The Discharge Planning Dilemma

Description

An interdisciplinary team is meeting to plan the discharge of Mrs. James, an 82 year old woman who was admitted to the hospital after a fall that resulted in a fractured hip. She is now medically stable and ready for discharge. Mrs. James lives alone, has limited mobility, early stage memory impairment and no nearby family. She wishes to return home rather than move into assisted living. On the day of discharge, the patient's daughter expresses frustration that the family was not adequately involved in planning and questions whether her mother can return home safely. As tensions rise, the nurse manager brings together the interdisciplinary team, including the nurse, social worker, dietitian, community coordinator, physician, and family to address the concerns. Through active listening, collaborative communication, and shared decision-making, the team develops a patient- and family-centred discharge plan that supports both Mrs. James' safety and her wish to remain at home.