Application of the Case Study Design

A single case study design was used to explore the nursing process and intervention related to discharge preparation of one family with a child requiring complex care at home. Helping methods described by Orem were used to categorize identified nursing interventions. Discharge readiness was assessed to verify consideration of conditions for discharge. The major study question was "How is discharge preparation conducted?" Collected data provided evidence to support each of three case study propositions: (1) patients and their home caregivers are involved in discharge preparation as planners and as learners, (2) nursing interventions occur in five major helping areas as outlined by Orem, (3) discharge preparation addresses each component of discharge readiness. The case study design was effective as an approach to explore nursing interventions, verify considerations of discharge conditions, and refine the concept of discharge readiness. A decision trail is presented for nurses to replicate the process with questions related to their practice.