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Carrie Olsen Hennessy, Psy.D., is a 2018 graduate of the Psy.D. Program in Clinical Psychology at Antioch University, New England

Dissertation Committee:

  • James Fauth, PhD, Committee Chair
  • Vince Pignatiello, PsyD, Committee Member
  • Michelle Mattison, PsyD, Committee Member

Keywords

patient preparedness, preparedness tool, hospital discharge, post-discharge care, post-discharge follow-up, hospital readmission, readmission risk, psychiatric hospitalization

Document Type

Dissertation

Publication Date

2018

Abstract

This mixed method study piloted a newly developed tool for monitoring preparedness among youth discharged from New Hampshire Hospital (NHH) and explored its influence on hospital discharge planning and follow-up care. This study spotlighted psychosocial variables in readmission risk for a psychiatric population and introduced a conceptualization of preparedness that included patient understanding of their discharge plan, as well as hope for change and supportive relationships. Quantitative methods were used to examine the relationship between aftercare and hospital readmission and further to explore the relationship between patient preparedness and readmission, as well as adverse events experienced post-discharge. Qualitative methods were used to explore the feasibility and utility of the preparedness tool. Chi-square results indicated that aftercare was associated with reduced readmission risk at 90-days. Regression analyses indicated preparedness scores did not contribute to the prediction of adverse events and hospital readmission. The Preparedness Assessment Tool’s (PAT) three-point rating scale made it difficult to detect a statistically meaningful relationship between preparedness and these outcomes and to effectively track changes in preparedness over time. Overall, the Aftercare Coordinator (AC) considered the PAT to be an invaluable asset to her work with patients. The PAT was found to be user-friendly, modifiable, effective, and efficient. Further, it helped personalize care, guide interventions, increase patient and family collaboration and understanding, and help monitor progress and patient need.

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Carrie Olsen Hennessy

ORCID Scholar ID# 0000-0001-9485-8427

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