Demographic Profile and Utilization of a Canadian Inpatient Palliative Care Unit
Author Information
Author(s): Napolskikh J., Selby D., Bennett M., Chow E., Harris K., Sinclair E., Myers J.
Primary Institution: Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
Hypothesis
What are the utilization statistics and demographic profiles of patients in a Canadian inpatient palliative care unit?
Conclusion
Many patients requiring palliative care services are admitted quickly, but a significant number die while waiting for admission.
Supporting Evidence
- 508 referrals were made to the palliative care unit, with 242 resulting in admissions.
- Median wait time for admitted patients was 6 days.
- 93% of admissions occurred within 21 days of referral.
- Median length of stay for admitted patients was 19 days.
- 52% of non-admitted patients died while waiting for admission.
Takeaway
This study looked at how many people need palliative care and how quickly they get it. It found that many patients wait too long and some die before they can get help.
Methodology
Retrospective chart review of patient admissions and demographics over a one-year period.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in wait time calculations due to first-offer refusals not being excluded.
Limitations
The study relies on retrospective data, which may not capture all relevant factors affecting patient care.
Participant Demographics
Median age of admitted patients was 76 years, with 48% being men; most had malignant diagnoses.
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