The status of readiness for hospital discharge of patients with post-stroke cognitive impairment and its relationship with post-discharge social isolation.

BACKGROUND

The current status of readiness for hospital discharge (RHD) in patients with post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) is not clear. This study aimed to investigate the current status of RHD in patients with PSCI, identify potential influencing factors, and explore the relationship between RHD and social isolation after discharge.

METHODS

This was an observational study reported according to the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) guidelines. We selected patients with post-stroke cognitive impairment from the Department of Neurology at a tertiary hospital in Zhejiang Province, China, from August to December 2023. Data were collected via a general information questionnaire, the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, the Readiness for Hospital Discharge Scale, and the Lubben Social Network Scale.

RESULTS

We surveyed a total of 170 patients, and collected complete data from 155 patients. The total Readiness for Hospital Discharge Scale score ranged from 67 to 111 (mean ± SD: 87.46 ± 9.64), with 58 (37.4%) patients identified as underprepared. Multivariate linear regression analysis of the significant variables identified via univariate analysis revealed that annual household income, residence, and Montreal Cognitive Assessment scores significantly affected RHD. Correlation analysis revealed that National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale scores were significantly negatively correlated with Lubben Social Network Scale scores, whereas Montreal Cognitive Assessment scores were positively correlated. There was also a significant positive correlation between RHD and social isolation.

CONCLUSION

Readiness for hospital discharge among patients with post-stroke cognitive impairment is at a medium level. Patients with higher annual household income, urban residence, and lower Montreal Cognitive Assessment scores had greater readiness for discharge. There is a significant correlation between readiness for discharge and social isolation after discharge. Improving patients' readiness for hospital discharge may help reduce social isolation.