From the Research
Patients with ENT conditions can be discharged from the clinic when they demonstrate clinical improvement, resolution of acute symptoms, and no longer require specialized care, as supported by the most recent evidence from 2021 1. Discharge is appropriate when patients show stable vital signs, adequate pain control with oral medications, resolution of fever for at least 24 hours without antipyretics, and ability to maintain oral hydration and nutrition. For post-surgical ENT patients, discharge criteria include:
- Minimal bleeding or drainage from surgical sites
- Proper wound healing
- Patient/caregiver understanding of wound care instructions Patients should have completed any necessary acute treatments and be transitioned to an appropriate outpatient medication regimen. Before discharge, ensure patients understand follow-up plans, medication instructions, and warning signs that would necessitate immediate medical attention. The timing of discharge varies by condition: acute infections may require 1-2 follow-ups before discharge, while chronic conditions like allergic rhinitis may need longer follow-up periods until symptoms are well-controlled with maintenance therapy. This approach ensures patient safety while efficiently utilizing healthcare resources, and is in line with the findings of the 2021 study that safe discharge of select patients is safe and should be encouraged in the current clinical climate 1.
Some key considerations for discharge include:
- Ensuring patients have adequate pain control and can manage their symptoms at home
- Providing clear instructions for follow-up care and potential complications
- Ensuring patients understand their medication regimen and can adhere to it
- Considering the patient's overall health status and ability to recover at home
- Being mindful of the potential for readmission and taking steps to minimize this risk, as noted in the 2021 study that found low re-admission rates for patients with tonsillitis, quinsy, and epistaxis who were safely managed out of hospital 1.
By prioritizing patient safety and providing clear guidance on discharge criteria, healthcare providers can ensure that patients with ENT conditions receive high-quality care and are able to recover effectively at home.