"Enhancing Discharge Planning in Medical-Surgical Nursing: Strategies for Continuity of Care"

Abstract: Discharge planning is a critical component of patient care in medical-surgical units, serving as a bridge between acute hospital treatment and recovery in the community. Inadequate discharge planning contributes to fragmented care, medication errors, poor adherence to treatment regimens, increased readmission rates, and adverse patient outcomes. Medical-surgical nurses play a pivotal role in coordinating discharge processes due to their continuous patient interaction and comprehensive understanding of patient needs. This review examines contemporary strategies for enhancing discharge planning in medical-surgical nursing, with a focus on promoting continuity of care across healthcare settings. Key areas explored include early and individualized discharge planning, patient and family education, interdisciplinary collaboration, use of technology, transitional care models, and the role of nurses in reducing preventable readmissions. By synthesizing current evidence and best practices, this review highlights nursing-led interventions that strengthen discharge planning processes and improve patient safety, satisfaction, and long-term health outcomes.