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Managing Conflict

Involuntary Patient Discharge

Involuntary Patient Discharges

Network 11 remains committed to assisting facilities in conflict resolution that may prevent patients from being involuntarily discharged from a facility. We encourage facility staff to call and discuss patient concerns before issues escalate to the point of discharge. Unfortunately, not all involuntary discharges can be prevented. With this in mind, Network 11 is also committed to tracking those discharges and analyzing trends.

Network 11 has a long history of tracking and analyzing involuntary discharges. In 2002, Network 11 led a national effort to collect and analyze data regarding involuntary discharges. This effort involved twelve ESRD Networks and represented 2800 dialysis facilities and 200,000 patients. Get the free Acrobat Reader. Link to Adobe Web site opens in new window. A report and a presentation regarding this project are available for download.

 

Decreasing Patient-Provider Conflict

In 2004, the Forum of ESRD Networks initiated a collaborative project aimed at Decreasing Patient Provider Conflict (DPC). Due in large part to its work in coordinating the 2002 involuntary patient discharge project (above), Network 11 was invited to coordinate the development of the DPC toolbox. Members of the renal community involved in this project included representatives from the large dialysis organizations, the American Nephrology Nurses Association, and others. Information regarding this project and the DPC toolbox are available for download at the Forum of ESRD Networks website.

The Patient Whisperer

On January 29, 2010, several ESRD Networks (1, 5, 6, 9/10, 11, and 14) hosted a webinar presentation on conflict resolution for dialysis staff. The speaker was Kathi Niccum Ed. D. from Network 9/10 who used the theme of "The Patient Whisperer" to describe a person who has the ability to relate to and connect to patients using interpersonal communication skills that include acceptance, honesty and integrity. The links below include the audio-visual presentation, a printable set of the slides with room for notes, and an evaluation form.