The Impact of Discharge Teaching on the Readmission Rates of Pediatric Patients With Asthma

Abstract

By Ryan Crow, Nursing; Shelby Tommer, Nursing; Kayla Jones, Nursing

Advisor: Lori Seta

Presentation ID: 81

Abstract: The readmission rates among pediatric patients diagnosed with asthma are brought into question when analyzing the effectiveness of discharge education for both the healthcare team and the caregivers of these patients. Previous research suggested that there is a direct correlation between knowledge deficits regarding caring for an asthmatic and increased readmission rates for asthematic patients. It was suggested that the fundamental understanding of asthma education among nursing staff and patient families has the potential to decrease readmission rates within this population. Studies that further explored reasons behind increased readmissions of pediatric asthma patients supported this. The current discharge education used at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Liberty Campus Current is provided by the registered respiratory therapists rather than by the registered nurses. The information found in previous studies and current practice both assisted in creating educational content regarding asthmatics that needed to be addressed with nursing staff. Findings of this study have yet to be concluded. To obtain these results and its effectiveness of educating nursing staff about prevention tactics to reduce the rate of readmissions among pediatric asthmatics, we will provide a survey to the registered nurses prior to and following an education session. A post-education reference card will then be provided to the staff to utilize in the future when discharging their asthematic patients. Objectives that will be addressed are common asthma triggers, identification of common reasons for readmission of asthma patients, and the steps taken in treating an acute asthma attack.