Article

PURPOSE : To explore the perceptions of clinicians about walking requirements and
discharge criteria for patients being discharged home in the community from
rehabilitation after hip fracture. METHODS: Twelve experienced clinicians (all
females) (mean experience in rehabilitation 13 years) were interviewed using an
in-depth semi-structured format. The recorded interviews were transcribed and
coded independently by two researchers. From these codes themes were developed.
RESULTS: For discharge planning, all clinicians considered personal/psychosocial
factors such as patient goals and social support. Almost all clinicians
considered that the performance factor of safe and independent ambulation was
important to consider when planning the patient's discharge, but did not set
specific distances or speeds. Clinicians expected that pain,
a lack of
confidence, and walking outdoors would affect the mobility at home but these
factors were considered little in discharge planning. CONCLUSIONS: In planning
discharge after rehabilitation for hip fracture, clinicians place more emphasis
on the individual needs and goals of the patient than on specifying objective
performance criteria that must be met. The expectation that lack of confidence
could be a problem after returning home suggests that this factor could be
considered more in discharge planning.

Langue : ANGLAIS