Management functions of discharge planning nurses in an integrated community care system

6^th World Nursing and Healthcare Conference

August 15-17, 2016 London, UK

Mihoko Ryoha, Mayuri Hashimoto, Yuko Mizuno, Mariko Hyakutake, Satomi Suzuki and Michiko Tanabe

Gifu College of Nursing, Japan

Posters & Accepted Abstracts: J Nurs Care

Abstract :

By 2025, Japan will become a super-aged society. Therefore, the health and welfare bureau for the elderly is working to establish an integrated community care system that enables people to continue to live in their hometowns until the end of their lives with a sense of security from knowing that their long-term care needs will be met. This study aimed to clarify the management functions of discharge planning nurses (DPNs) in an integrated community care system. Data were collected through face-to-face semi-structured interviews using open-ended questions and analyzed qualitatively. DPNs respect the different hopes of each client/ family and try to provide care that meets these hopes. To provide such care, DPNs participate in interprofessional collaboration on discharge plans that include possible conditions or problems clients may encounter in the future and describe care systems for clients in their communities. DPNs inform clients about their choices and support the decision-making of the client/family. When adjusting discharge plans, DPNs consider the strength of the client/family. Analysis of interview data revealed 8 categories of management functions of DPNs in an integrated community care system, including adjusting hopes between the client and family, supporting the decision-making of the client/family, collaborating with primary nurses in wards, participating in interprofessional collaboration in the community, and adjusting their roles. Japan has limited social resources and informal support includes the family. Furthermore, hospital stays are becoming shorter. These factors complicate DPNs� work. To promote integrated community care systems, DPNs need support that enhances their management skills.

Biography :

Mihoko Ryoha completed her DNS at Chiba University. She is working as a Professor in the Department of Management in Nursing at the Gifu College of Nursing, Japan. She is a qualified RN and PHN.

Email: m-ryoha@gifu-cn.ac.jp