Delayed Transfer of Care in Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Jasinarachchi Krishantha H, Ibrahim Ibrahim R, Keegan Breffni C, Mathialagan Rajaratnam, McGourty John C, Phillips James RN, Myint Phyo K
Primary Institution: Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital
Hypothesis
What factors contribute to delayed transfer of care from hospitals to the community for older adults?
Conclusion
Waiting for therapy and domiciliary care were significant factors contributing to delayed transfers of care.
Supporting Evidence
- 36.7% of patients experienced delayed transfer of care.
- 58 delayed discharges resulted in 682 extra bed days.
- Older patients with poorer mobility were more likely to experience delays.
Takeaway
Older patients often have to wait longer to go home from the hospital because they need help from therapists or home care services.
Methodology
A prospective observational study was conducted in a district general hospital, following patients aged 65 and over from admission until discharge.
Potential Biases
Potential misclassification of delayed transfers due to subjective judgments on medical fitness for discharge.
Limitations
The study may underestimate the impact of delays and did not follow up on timely discharges.
Participant Demographics
79 males and 79 females, ages ranged from 66 to 98 years, with a median age of 82.5 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.012
Confidence Interval
95% confidence interval 0.90, 0.99
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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