The Role of Social Determinates of Health in Discharge Practices.

Major risks associated with inadequate discharge preparation and execution include medication errors, adverse drug events, and hospital readmissions. Nurses must develop pertinent skills to assess how the social environment impacts patients' likelihood of a safe and healthy transition back into the community as they prepare patients for discharge. Recognition and consideration of social determinants of health are critical to minimizing health disparities, enhancing health equity and supporting positive patient outcomes. Examples of strategies for enhanced discharge practices include implicit bias assessment and training, screening for food insecurity, and assessment for quality referral sources.