Planning

Planning for the next phase should be initiated as early as possible.

Reference: Shepperd et al., 2013
NHMRC level of evidence:   I

Rationale: Effective discharge planning is essential for smooth transitions through the continuum of care. Delayed or incomplete planning leads to prolonged hospital stays and an increased risk of adverse events following discharge (Canadian Stroke Strategy, 2013; Shepperd et al., 2013).

References:

1. The Canadian Stroke Strategy. (2010). Canadian Best Practice Recommendations for Stroke Care.  Ottawa, Ontario Canada: Canadian Stroke Network
2. Shepperd, S., Lannin, N. A., Clemson, L. M., McCluskey, A., Cameron, I. D., & Barras, S. L. (2013). Discharge planning from hospital to home. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews(1). doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD000313.pub4