Transitional Discharge Based on Therapeutic Relationships: State of the Art

Authors

Cheryl Forchuk, University of Western OntarioFollow
William Reynolds, University of Western Ontario
Siobhan Sharkey, University of Western Ontario
Mary-Lou Martin, University of Western Ontario
Elsabeth Jensen, University of Western Ontario

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

4-2007

Journal

Archives of Psychiatric Nursing

Volume

21

Issue

2

First Page

80

Last Page

86

Abstract

The Transitional Discharge Model (TDM) has been used to facilitate effective discharge from psychiatric hospital to community. A summary of the research to date on TDM is given. The model is based on the provision of therapeutic relationships to provide a safety net throughout the discharge and community reintegration processes. These relationships include both staff and peer involvement; hospital inpatient staff continue to remain involved with the client until a therapeutic relationship is established with a community care provider, and peer support is offered from a former consumer of mental health services who is currently living in the community. Studies found that the TDM facilitates increased discharge rates, lower readmission rates, and cost savings--making it a collaborative, cost-effective method of providing quality patient care and positive health care outcomes. The TDM Plan of Research is presented and reflects the collaboration between stakeholders and the integration of consumer advocacy, clinical practice, education, policy, and research in various countries.

Notes

Published in: Archives of Psychiatric Nursing, Volume 21, Issue 2, April 2007, Pages 80-86. doi: 10.1016/j.apnu.2006.11.002