In this article, we will see reflective account on failed discharge for NMC revalidation. We will discuss in the format given by NMC for reflective account.
Reflective Account on Failed Discharge for NMC Revalidation
What was the nature of the experience (failed discharge) in your practice?
Failed discharge – Patient was discharged home without package of care compromising patient safety.
What did you learn from the experience in your practice?
I came to know importance of checking discharge letter before discharge. I also understood importance of making sure the patient has received all the medicines before discharge. One of the responsibility of the nurse is to check the therapy notes to see whether any package of care is set for the patient. Nurse also has the duty to make sure that patient is medically fit for discharge prior to discharge. It is also important to inform next of kin of patient especially some cases in which patient hasn’t got capacity.
Discharges from hospital can be of different types. With the specific experience i became aware of the things nurses should check while discharging a patient who is discharged with a package of care. Now, for all the patients who are going home with package of care we do check the following based on this specific experience,
– Patient is medically fit for the discharge
– Cares has got capacity to accommodate patient for starting package of care
– Patient has got all the medicines as per discharge letter
– Patient is able to read the instruction on medicine boxes and take accordingly or carers are aware of the condition of patient.
– Next of kin of the patient is aware of hospital discharge
– Patient has got access to the home if he/she is living alone
– Indwelling devices such as IV cannula is taken out prior to discharge
– District nurse referral is done according to the area where patient lives in. For e.g. if the patient has got any needs such as use of insulin, palliative needs, incontinence, wound care or long term catheter.
– Transport is booked if required.
I have become more aware of the discharge pathways and what we as nurses need to do in case of the specific discharge pathway.
How is this relevant to the Code?
Themes relevant are Prioritise people, Practise effectively, Preserve safety and Promote professionalism and trust
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