Chapter 17: Assisting with Admission and Discharge

What are some common patient reactions to Hospitalization?

• Anxiety, Concern, Fear

• Loss of identity, Disorientation, Separation Anxiety

• Loneliness

Who performs the cultural assessment during admission?

The nurse

When should the PCT check with the nurse to determine the patient’s specific preferences?

After the admission assessment

What information is an admissions department representative responsible for obtaining?

• Demographic, insurance, and identifying info

• Emergency Contacts

What information is present on a patient’s ID band?

• Name

• Date of Birth

• Allergens

What others forms are patients presented with?

• Consent forms + Patient’s Bill of Rights

What should PCTs do to ensure that a room is prepared for a patient?

• Keep it neat and clean

• Maintain appropriate temp + lighting

• Have personal care items & special equipment in place

What should a PCT do when meeting the patient?

• Greet them and orient them to the room

• Explain facility routine (mealtimes, tests, etc)

• Have the patient don a gown

• Make an inventory of the patient’s belongings

If another patient is in the room, should you introduce the admitting patient?

Yes

What is intraagency?

Moving a patient from one unit to another

What is interagency?

Moving a patient from one healthcare facility to another

What is necessary for an interagency transfer?

• An order from the healthcare provider

• Explanation of the patient’s condition to the family + staff

• Documentation from the accepting facility

• Consent form that lists benefits and risks for the patient

When is Discharge planning usually begin?

Shortly after admission

How can the PCT assist with discharge?

• Arrange transportation

• Schedule follow-up appointments

• Ensure that there’s someone available to pick up the patient’s prescriptions

What’s included in the TJC’s list of instructions?

• Safe use of meds & equipment

• Nutrition & special diets

• Rehab techniques for independence

• Community resources

• When/how to get more treatment

• Patient & family care responsibilities

• Personal hygiene & grooming

Who makes referrals for other healthcare services and when should they be made?

The nurse (in communication w/ the healthcare provider) and they should be made as soon as possible after the patient’s need is identified