Assessment tools and factors used to predict discharge from acute general medical wards: a systematic review.

CONCLUSIONS: The large number of tools and factors found and their distribution across several WHO ICF concepts exemplifies the complexities of predicting discharge. No single assessment tool that best predicts discharge destination was identified, but rather there were a variety of potential tools identified. Further research is needed to determine the psychometric properties of the identified assessment tools as well as additional predictors of subacute care (including rehabilitation). This is important as it may allow for timely clinical decision making. TRIAL REGISTRATION: A priori, PROSPERO (CRD42017064209). IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION This systematic review identified a large number of assessment tools and patient factors associated with discharge destination (home, subacute and residential care) in general medical inpatients. All of the domains of the WHO ICF framework are associated with discharge destination and must be considered. Clinicians in the acute setting can use these findings to assist selection of assessment tools to identify patients likely to need rehabilitation or subacute care. Early identification of patients who are unable to return to their place of residence is essential as it allows for provision of early rehabilitation and subsequent discharge planning. PMID: 33463383 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Disability and Rehabilitation - Category: Rehabilitation Authors: Tags: Disabil Rehabil Source Type: research