Table 3 Examples of conflict evident from content analysis

Costs (n = 6)

(n = 1)

„Phone call from daughter: got 21 days neuro rehab in general department, daughter intervenes, that patient has semiprivate insurance. SW [social service worker]: [patient] is here in general department and was classified by patient admission like that. Daughter insists that patient goes to semiprivate rehab.”

(n = 5)

„...furthermore, the husband consistently refers to the financial burdens of an ATC or the entrance in a nursing home, that would exceed the financial resources of the couple.”

Discharge Placement (n = 35)

(n = 18)

„Discussion with patient: ATC discussed. Patient wants Rehab, Phone call from assistant physician: [Rehab] is clearly not indicated.”

(n = 17)

„Discussion with patient: is feeling uncertain about going home and organizing everything alone again. Personal hygiene not independent at the moment and home care costs nearly the same like nursing home ➔ ATC, wherever.”

Discharge too early (n = 15)

(n = 10)

„Phone call from son: is shocked about the early discharge.“

(n = 5)

„Discussion with patient and husband: Patient is shocked that she has to go already. She doesn’t feel well at all.”

Two or more conflicts (n = 2)

(n = 2)

„[Patient] doesn’t understand, that she couldn’t go home and instead needs ATC, because she can’t put weight on her leg. She is completely shocked about the high costs of ATC, because she doesn’t get any additional benefits.”

Other (n = 3)

(n = 3)

„Exchange with nurses regarding transfer in private car; from the viewpoint of nurses, it is not possible. Patient absolutely wants to travel with a friend in private car. Clarification with physical therapist, same result. Discussion with patient: stubbornly refuses to give up.”