Keywords

DOCUMENTATION, ELDERLY, HOSPITAL READMISSIONS

Authors

1. Timms, Janet EdD, RN,CS
2. Parker, Veronica G. PhD
3. Fallat, Elizabeth H. MS, RN
4. Johnson, Wilma H. MSN, RN

Abstract

Researchers conducted a retrospective review of 127 hospital records over a 3-month period to examine factors related to early hospital readmissions of patients age 65 and over. The leading diagnoses resulting in early readmissions were related to heart and circulatory problems, with a mean of 12.5 days between discharge and readmission. Gaps in documentation and the need for including qualitative data are discussed. Staff development educators are central to implementing strategies to correct these documentation deficiencies.