Implementing Discharge (D/C) Teaching for Sepsis Patients to Decrease 30-Day Readmission Rate

Abstract

Hospitals recognize sepsis as a serious medical condition and recognize that early treatment of sepsis improves patient outcomes and saves lives. Unfortunately, post-sepsis patients being discharged from the hospital may redevelop sepsis. Readmissions due to sepsis can negatively impact patient outcomes and lead to increased hospital costs. Despite these findings, many hospitals underuse resources (e.g., patient education and patient engagement) to prevent hospital readmission due to sepsis. The purpose of this evidence-based project was to determine whether a sepsis education program introduced by the nursing staff at time of discharge from the medical/surgical unit will reduce the number of 30-day readmissions to the hospital setting due to sepsis. Educating the patients at discharge about sepsis, the importance of understanding the signs and symptoms of early sepsis, and the steps to take if they meet the criteria in meeting sepsis was implemented. A needs assessment was done to serve as a basis for preparation of developing an evidence-based project within the hospital setting designed for healthcare providers to consistently provide sepsis education at time of discharge. The IOWA Model design was used to assist the healthcare team in translating the research findings into practice and to increase positive patient outcomes. Malcom Knowles’ Andragogy Theory was developed to understand and provide direction in meeting the needs of the adult learner. This theory assisted in the teaching of the healthcare team and the patients. Metrics, including readmission rates for patients being discharged with the diagnosis of sepsis were monitored to determine education program success. Measures included readmission rate and the compliance rate of sepsis education documentation at time of discharge. Data collection on readmissions and sepsis education documentation were collected through chart audits and stored in the organization’s secure drive.