Assessment of Discharge Planning Practices and Their Effect on Readmission Rates at Usman Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto

Background: Effective hospital discharge planning reduces avoidable readmissions, promotes continuity of care, and reduces healthcare costs. Nursing-led discharge processes are an integral component of this pathway. Aim: This study assessed discharge planning practices and their effect on readmission rates at Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, North West Nigeria. Methods: A retrospective record review supplemented by a cross-sectional nurse survey was conducted. Discharge planning quality was evaluated for 200 randomly selected patient records over 12 months. One hundred nurses were surveyed on discharge planning knowledge and practices. Data were analysed using SPSS version 26. Results: Comprehensive discharge planning documentation was completed in only 43% of reviewed records. Readmission within 30 days was recorded in 22% of patients with incomplete discharge plans compared with 9% in those with complete plans. Nurses cited heavy workloads and lack of standardised checklists as principal barriers. Conclusion: Deficiencies in discharge planning are directly associated with higher readmission rates. Development of structured discharge planning protocols, nurse training, and interprofessional discharge team meetings are recommended to reduce avoidable readmissions. Keywords: discharge planning, readmission, nursing, Sokoto, continuity of care.