Individual research recommendation details

Recommendation ID

NG142/4

Question

What is the optimal way of discharging people approaching the end of their life from hospitals back to their place of residence?

Any explanatory notes
(if applicable)

The committee found there was very little evidence on discharging adults approaching the end of their life and transferring them between settings. One of the most important transfers is from hospital to home or the person's place of residence, such as a nursing home, especially when death is imminent. Such discharges are often delayed because of medical or nursing problems, or by unmet social care needs. However, some of these problems could be managed well in the community with key equipment or medication and improved social care. The consequences of delayed discharge can be distressing to the person approaching the end of life and their carers and important people. It could mean people staying and dying in inappropriate care settings, such as an acute hospital ward, when it is not their preferred place to be cared for and die. Delayed discharge would also be unnecessary from a medical or nursing perspective.

Key factors in ensuring prompt discharge with care and compassion include clear communication and processes between services providing care in the 2 settings and also those providing transport.

Source guidance details

Comes from guidance

End of life care for adults: service delivery

Number

NG142

Date issued

October 2019

Other details