Discharge Calls: How One Call Can Make the Difference for Patients, Families, and Reimbursement

“You want to add one more thing to my day?” “Discharge calls” brings a mixture of comments and emotions from nurses. Some feel it's important to follow up with patients; others feel that it is “just being nice” or “the patients in bed are my patients.” Yet today's patients are going home earlier, with folders of information, and usually unclear of the education provided. Although patients want to go home, they are often anxious. If they do not understand their treatment and medications, their health could be compromised. Discharge calls provide an opportunity to make the transition to home better and improve the patient experience.