Abstract
Purpose: To investigate post-discharge problems recognized by parents of medically fragile children who received discharge planning during hospitalization and the reasons why the problems occurred. Methods: Three discharge planning nurses and 10 parents who were recipients of discharge planning by these nurses were interviewed. Interview data were analyzed using a qualitative descriptive method. Results: Post-discharge problems with medically fragile children and their families are "Problems concerning the physical condition and care of the child" and "Problems in living with the child". The problems were caused by "characteristics of medically fragile children," "parents situation related to caring for their child," "care provided by the hospital" or "lack of resources." Discussion: It was suggested that pre-discharge preparation in recognizing the post-discharge situation, a mechanism flexibly responsive to changing demands, continuing home care support by discharge planning nurse and out-patient nurse, increases in respite care, and support for siblings were necessary.
