The nursing role in preventing delay in patient discharge

This article uses a case scenario of a delayed patient discharge to explore multidisciplinary discharge planning. The common causes of delayed discharge are described and the importance of effective multidisciplinary team-working is emphasised through a review of a 'whole systems approach' to discharge. The role of the nurse in discharge planning is examined, as are the effects of poor interprofessional communication and documentation, and their link to hospital readmission. Issues of patient power, choice, participation and control are emphasised. The value of good information-giving is highlighted, both for the patient and the patient's carers.