Who should be included in discharge education according to best practices?

Including the patient and family members or those they live with in discharge education is essential for several important reasons. Family members or caregivers are often involved in the patient's ongoing care and can provide support in managing any aftercare instructions. Their involvement increases the chances that the patient will understand and follow through with the discharge plan appropriately.

Engaging both the patient and their support system ensures that they are fully informed about post-operative care, including medication management, signs of complications, activity restrictions, and follow-up appointments. This approach also allows for questions to be asked from multiple perspectives, which can enhance the clarity and retention of the information provided.

Additionally, when family members are informed, they can better assist the patient in adhering to the recovery guidelines, which can lead to improved outcomes and reduced readmission rates. By fostering an environment of shared understanding, healthcare providers can empower both the patient and their family to participate actively in the healing process, improving overall health literacy and support systems.