Utility of a Novel Scale to Assess Readiness for Discharge After Bariatric Surgery

Background The safe release of a patient from hospital care after bariatric surgery depends upon the achievement of satisfactory health status. Here, we describe a new objective scale (the Readiness for Discharge, RFD Scale) to measure the patient’s suitability for hospital discharge after bariatric surgery. Methods We conducted a retrospective, observational analysis of data collected in a randomized clinical trial of an enhanced recovery after surgery protocol for laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy from 3/15/2018 to 1/12/2019. Nursing staff assessed 122 patients every 4–8 h after surgery using a checklist to document 5 components: ambulation, vital signs, pain, nausea, and oral intake of clear fluid. Satisfaction of each component was scored as “1” (satisfactory) or “0” (not satisfactory). Scores were summed and analyzed for patterns. RFD = 5 marked the patient as ready for discharge. Results Sufficient intake of clear liquid was the last RFD component satisfied in 87% of patients. Two overall response patterns emerged: “ Steady Progressors” ( n = 51) whose RFD score rose steadily from 0 to 5 without reversion to a lower score; and “Oscillators” ( n = 71) who had at least one temporary decrease in RFD score on the way to attaining 5, or showed a simultaneous oscillation of components without change in RFD. Conclusions The RFD checklist allows objective scoring of medical readiness for discharge after LSG and has the potential to improve clinical communication.