Discharge planning for postnatal mothers with gestational hypertension in Indonesia

Background/Aims Gestational hypertension is a leading contributor to maternal morbidity and mortality in Indonesia. Discharge planning aims to support postnatal readiness and strengthen continuity of care. This study's aim was to examine its implementation for postnatal women with gestational hypertension in secondary hospitals in Surabaya, Indonesia. Methods A descriptive observational study was conducted with 37 women. Data on discharge planning practices were collected using a structured checklist and analysed descriptively. Results Discharge planning procedures in participating hospitals were inconsistently implemented and did not fully meet recommended standards, particularly in documentation, psychological assessment and continuity-of-care arrangements. Conclusions Strengthening implementation of structured discharge planning is essential to improve midwife-led continuity of care and postnatal outcomes for women with gestational hypertension in Indonesia. Implications for practice Discharge planning should include clinical assessment, individualised education, medication counselling, complete discharge documentation and clear follow-up arrangements.