Abstract
‘Failed discharge’ was used as a measure of service efficacy on a psychogeriatric unit. Thirty-eight failed discharges from hospital were compared with 38 controls. Failed discharge was associated with a diagnosis of depression and a greater number of previous admissions. Possible underlying causes are discussed.In the current NHS climate, it is increasingly important to measure the outcome of medical care. In psychiatry, the most appropriate methodology is not clear-cut (Garden & Oyebode, 1989). Tailed discharge’, or readmission to hospital within a short period of discharge, has been advocated as a possible outcome measure (Jones, 1991). This point prevalence study, of patients under 65 years, yielded a ‘failed discharge’ rate of 27%. Recurrence of original symptoms, poor treatment compliance and failure of follow-up arrangements emerged as important factors.
Highlights
'Failed discharge' was used as a measure of service efficacy on a psychogeriatric unit
Data were collected on age, sex. diagnosis recorded in case-notes, length of admissions and number of previous admissions
Recurrence of original symptoms, poor treatment compliance and failure of follow-up arrangements emerged as important factors
Summary
Failed discharge was associated with a diagnosis of depression and a greater number of previous admissions. The casenotes were examined for possible reasons for readmission, treatments received during admission and other potential contributory factors. The most appropriate methodology is not clear-cut (Garden & Oyebode, 1989). 'Failed discharge', or readmission to hospital within a short period of discharge, has been advocated as a possible outcome measure (Jones, 1991). This point ypireelvdaeldencae s'ftuaidlyed, odf ipsacthiaerngtse' unrdateer 6o5f y2e7ar%s,. Our study examines failed discharges in the over 65 years age group to determine which categories of patient are most at risk of readmission and the possible underlying reasons
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