Beyond the hospital walls--a study of black patients after discharge from hospital
Macdonald, D.S.; Ross, W.F.
South African Medical Journal 60(16): 615-618
1981
ISSN/ISBN: 0256-9574 PMID: 7292200 Document Number: 170371
Ninety-six patients were followed up in their homes 2 wk, 3 mo. and 1 yr after their discharge from hospital. Within 2 wk of discharge from hospital, interviews could only be arranged with 80, 9 having died and 7 being untraceable at the given address. The characteristics of the patients, their living conditions, knowledge of their illness, general health and ability to work were noted on the 1st follow-up visit, and their general health and ability to work were reassessed on 2 subsequent occasions, by which time a further 8 and 7 had died. As a result of the survey, recommendations are made covering health information for patients and suitable follow-up procedures to ensure maximum benefit from hospitalization.