Article

PURPOSE: To determine the predictive value of age, stroke severity and caregiver
availability for discharge destination of individuals with severe stroke
following inpatient rehabilitation. METHODS: Telephone interviews were conducted
with individuals recovering from a severe stroke (Rehabilitation Patient Groups
1100 and 1110), who were discharged from a specialized inpatient stroke
rehabilitation unit between April 2005 and December 2009, to determine caregiver
availability at the time of discharge. Age and Functional Independence Measure
(FIM(R)) scores were obtained retrospectively by chart review. These three
variables were analyzed using logistic regression as potential predictors of
discharge destination (home versus long-term care). RESULTS: Data from 189
individuals were analyzed. Younger age, higher admission FIM(R) scores and the
presence of a willing and able caregiver were significantly associated with
discharge home. Only one individual was discharged home in the absence of a
caregiver. CONCLUSION: Age, admission FIM(R) and caregiver availability were
significant predictors of post-rehabilitation discharge destination. Results of
this study suggest that for individuals with severe stroke, discharge home is
unlikely in the absence of an available caregiver. Implications for
Rehabilitation Age, stroke severity at admission and the availability of a
caregiver play an important role in determining post rehabilitation discharge
destination of individuals with severe stroke. These factors must be considered
to assist with appropriate goal setting and discharge planning during inpatient
rehabilitation.

Langue : ANGLAIS