RESPONSIBLE HOSPITAL DISCHARGE FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF PRIMARY HEALTH CARE NURSES: AN INTEGRATIVE LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

This research, an Integrative Literature Review (RIL), examines the view of Primary Health Care (PHC) nurses on Responsible Hospital Discharge, a fundamental process to ensure the safe transition of patients from the hospital to other levels of care, promoting continuity and self-care at home. This practice is crucial to reduce readmissions, adverse events, and healthcare costs, as well as to involve patients and families in treatment management. The RIL followed six steps: formulation of the survey question based on the acronym PICo; search in databases (MEDLINE, Web of Science, LILACS, BDENF, SciELO), identifying 2,823 articles; and screening and critical analysis of the selected studies. Eight articles were included and their results organized into three categories: 1) Continuity of Care, which highlights the importance of effective planning and communication between health teams, patients, and families; 2) Challenges of Post-Discharge Care, evidencing difficulties such as limited resources and lack of structure for the continuity of care; and 3) Patient- and Family-Centered Care, which underlines the relevance of education and family involvement in recovery. The categories reinforce the need for efficient communication between the levels of care and for a well-structured counter-referral, pointing out barriers such as the fragmentation of health services. Strategies for continuity of care include educational actions for patients and caregivers, as well as clear communication between teams. The research suggests the implementation of more effective public policies and the strengthening of intersectoral articulation to improve health outcomes and patient satisfaction.