ROLE OF NURSES FOR CONTINUITY OF CARE AFTER HOSPITAL DISCHARGE

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective: to recognize the role of nurses to maintain continuity of care for users after hospital discharge. Method: an exploratory, descriptive study with a qualitative approach. The study was applied at hospital discharge originating from the most complex health center in Magallanes, the Hospital Clinico Magallanes, Chile. Data were collected through interviews with nurses, carried out between May and August 2018. To analyze the material, the content analysis technique was used. Results: three categories emerged, which bring together what nurses mention in their discourse: How they see the implementation of hospital nursing services, which facilitate continuity of care in the healthcare network of discharged patients (known as care networks); Who they identify in the nursing service for continuity of care after discharge (care networks), which these nursing professionals make and suggestions for their performance; and How care networks affect users in continuity of care after discharge. Conclusion: the role of nurses is key in patient discharge from hospital. With autonomy and competencies for comprehensive care, professionals facilitate the healthcare transition; manage hospital discharge, convening the institutional nursing network and the emerging networks with primary health care; aspire to develop strategies for an inter-level care network, with systematic participation.