Feeling let down: An exploratory study of the experiences of older people who were readmitted to hospital following a recent discharge

Background: Readmission of older people to hospital following a recent discharge may be an indicator of gaps in services either prior to or after discharge. Aims and objectives: To explore the experiences of older people who have been readmitted to hospital following recent discharge to their homes. Design: A qualitative descriptive study. Method: In-depth interviews were conducted with three older people who were discharged from a large tertiary referral hospital in NSW Australia and readmitted. Interviews were conducted within the hospital setting in a private room. An interview guide was used to explore the reasons for admission and readmission to hospital and experiences upon discharge to home. In particular the researchers were interested in the events that led to readmission. Data were analysed thematically. Results: Three main themes emerged including: being left out, being cared for and feeling let down. Conclusion: While this study was undertaken in only one hospital with only three older people the findings provide valuable insight into their experiences. Nurses need to be proactive in ensuring and promoting a person-centred approach to the care and treatment of older people.