DAFORMFILLABLE.COM | DA FORM 3888-3 Fillable – Army Pubs 3888-3 PDF – The DA FORM 3888-3, commonly known as the Medical Record – Nursing Discharge Summary, is a crucial document in the healthcare process, particularly within military medical facilities. This form plays an essential role in ensuring a seamless transition of care from the hospital to the patient’s next phase of recovery or treatment. Here, we’ll explore the form’s purpose, its components, and why it’s vital in the healthcare continuum.
DA FORM 3888-3 – Medical Record – Nursing Discharge Summary
| Form Number | DA Form 3888-3 |
| Form Title | Medical Record – Nursing Discharge Summary |
| Form Date | 06/01/1991 |
| Form Proponent | TSG |
What is DA FORM 3888-3?
DA FORM 3888-3 is a standardized form used by the United States Army to document the nursing care and condition of a patient upon discharge from a medical facility. Designed to provide a comprehensive summary of the patient’s hospitalization, this form facilitates effective communication between healthcare providers and supports continuity of care.
Key Features of DA FORM 3888-3
- Publication Date: The form was officially published on June 1, 1991.
- Proponent: The Surgeon General (TSG) is the proponent of this form.
- Status: It remains an active form used in medical records.
- Prescribing Directive: The form is prescribed by AR 40-66.
- Security and Distribution: It is unclassified and approved for public release, allowing for unlimited distribution.
Importance of the Nursing Discharge Summary
The Nursing Discharge Summary is vital for several reasons:
- Continuity of Care: It ensures that the patient’s subsequent healthcare providers have a complete understanding of the patient’s medical history and the care they received during hospitalization.
- Patient Safety: By providing detailed information about the patient’s condition, treatments, and medications, the form helps prevent medical errors and enhance patient safety.
- Communication: It serves as a critical communication tool between nurses, doctors, and other healthcare professionals involved in the patient’s care after discharge.
Components of the Nursing Discharge Summary
A comprehensive Nursing Discharge Summary, such as that documented on DA FORM 3888-3, typically includes:
- Patient Information: This includes the patient’s name, age, and military status.
- Hospitalization Details: Dates of admission and discharge, reasons for hospitalization, and the primary department or service line.
- Medical Summary: Summary of the diagnosis, medical interventions, surgeries, and any complications.
- Medication Information: Details about medications prescribed at discharge, including dosages and administration instructions.
- Patient Condition at Discharge: The patient’s health status at the time of discharge.
- Care Instructions: Guidelines for follow-up care, including appointments, dietary restrictions, and physical activity limitations.
- Contact Information: Details of healthcare providers for follow-up care.
Utilizing DA FORM 3888-3 in Healthcare Settings
Healthcare professionals, especially those working in military medical facilities, need to understand how to effectively complete and utilize DA FORM 3888-3. Here are some tips for using the form:
Best Practices for Completing the Form
- Be Precise: Ensure that all information is accurate and detailed to avoid misinterpretations.
- Follow Guidelines: Adhere to the prescribed guidelines under AR 40-66 for consistency and compliance.
- Use Clear Language: Avoid medical jargon that might be confusing to patients and their families.
Training and Education
Healthcare providers should undergo regular training to stay updated on the best practices for completing the Nursing Discharge Summary. This training can include:
- Workshops on documentation standards.
- Updates on changes to healthcare regulations and forms.
- Cross-disciplinary training sessions to ensure cohesive use of the form across various departments.
Conclusion
The DA FORM 3888-3, or Medical Record – Nursing Discharge Summary, is more than just a form; it is a vital tool that bridges the gap between inpatient care and the care that follows discharge. By ensuring this form is accurately and thoroughly completed, healthcare providers enhance the continuity, quality, and safety of patient care. This form, therefore, is an essential piece of the healthcare puzzle in military and affiliated civilian healthcare settings.
DA FORM 3888-3 Fillable – Army Pubs 3888-3 PDF DOWNLOAD
