.Jordan has a substance abuse disorder related to heroin. She has been admitted to the hospital several times for infectious endocarditis and has had two valve replacements. Two weeks ago, she developed endocarditis of the mitral valve. She was admitted to the hospital and put on antibiotic therapy but continued to have positive blood culture results. The chief cardiac surgeon refused to operate saying that the patient's addiction was the root of the problem and could not be cured. Another surgeon agreed to operate. Postoperative recovery was going well until Jordan began to act erratically, leaving her room and missing her antibiotic therapy. A screening test revealed the presence of illegal narcotics in her urine. The nurses and several patients complained that Jordan has threatened them. They suspect that Jordan has also been dealing drugs in the hospital when she is away from her room. After receiving complaints from the nurses, the physician in charge has ordered Jordan's immediate discharge with plans for antibiotic therapy to be continued as an outpatient. Jordan's sister, her nearest relative, lives out of state and is unable to provide for Jordan's care physically or economically. Jordan is without medical insurance, a home, or transportation to the nearest hospital. Her current medical condition is best treated with in-patient care. Jordan's sister, when hearing that Jordan will be discharged, contacts your office protesting the decision and demanding that it be reversed. As a healthcare leader building an organization respectful of ethics and law, will you support the discharge?
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