Improving delayed discharge in gastrointestinal surgery patients: An integrative review.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Delayed discharge is a global challenge that strains healthcare systems and affects patient outcomes. In gastrointestinal surgery patients, delays often result from a continuum, clinical complications prolong the acute stay and create additional care needs, such as rehabilitation and specialised homecare, which lead to further delays. However, existing literature provides limited insight into this patient group, as most studies generalise the issue. A focused integrative review is therefore needed to synthesise the causes, impacts, and strategies of delayed discharge and to inform more effective discharge planning.

Objective

This review aims to synthesise evidence related to delayed discharge in patients undergoing gastrointestinal surgery. Specifically, it seeks

SUBMITTER: Chaimee M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12482300 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature