What does case management involve in nursing?

Case management in nursing primarily involves a registered nurse coordinating care from the patient’s admission to their eventual return home. This role encompasses a broad range of responsibilities, emphasizing the holistic management of a patient’s healthcare. The case manager collaborates with various healthcare providers to ensure that the patient receives comprehensive services that meet their individual needs, including medical, psychological, and social support.

By overseeing the entire continuum of care, the case manager ensures that there is a seamless transition for the patient between different levels of healthcare facilities and services. This coordination is critical for optimizing patient outcomes, reducing hospital readmissions, and improving overall satisfaction with the healthcare experience. Additionally, the initial assessment of the patient’s needs performed by the case manager helps in creating a tailored care plan that addresses specific health challenges.

This approach not only enhances the quality of care provided to patients but also plays a vital role in resource management within healthcare systems, as it helps identify and address potential gaps in care early on.