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Haimovich AD, Mulqueen S, Carreras-Tartak J, Gettel C, Schonberg MA, Hastings SN, Carpenter C, Liu SW, Thomas SH. Discharge instruction comprehension by older adults in the emergency department: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Acad Emerg Med 2024. [PMID: 39264024 DOI: 10.1111/acem.15013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2024] [Revised: 08/13/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Older adults are at high risk of adverse health outcomes in the post-emergency department (ED) discharge period. Prior work has shown that discharged older adults have variable understanding of their discharge instructions which may contribute to these outcomes. To identify discharge comprehension gaps amenable to future interventions, we utilize meta-analysis to determine patient comprehension across five domains of discharge instructions: diagnosis, medications, self-care, routine follow-up, and return precautions. METHODS Using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, two reviewers sourced evidence from databases including Medline (PubMed), EMBASE, Web of Science, CINAHL, and Google Scholar (for gray literature). Publications or preprints appearing before April 2024 were included if they focused on geriatric ED discharge instructions and reported a proportion of patients with comprehension of at least one of five predefined discharge components. Meta-analysis of eligible studies for each component was executed using random-effects modeling to describe the proportion of geriatric ED cases understanding the discharge instructions; where appropriate we calculated pooled estimates, reported as percentages with 95% confidence interval (CI). RESULTS Of initial records returned (N = 2898), exclusions based on title or abstract assessment left 51 studies for full-text review; of these, seven constituted the study set. Acceptable heterogeneity and absence of indication of publication bias supported pooled estimates for proportions comprehending instructions on medications (41%, 95% CI 31%-50%, I2 = 43%), self-care (81%, 95% CI 76%-85%, I2 = 43%), and routine follow-up (76%, 95% CI 72%-79%, I2 = 25%). Key findings included marked heterogeneity with respect to comprehending two discharge parameters: diagnosis (I2 = 73%) and return precautions (I2 = 95%). CONCLUSIONS Older patients discharged from the ED had greater comprehension of self-care and follow-up instructions than about their medications. These findings suggest that medication instructions may be a priority domain for future interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian D Haimovich
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sydney Mulqueen
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jossie Carreras-Tartak
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Cameron Gettel
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Mara A Schonberg
- Department of Internal Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Susan N Hastings
- ADAPT Center of Innovation, Durham VA Health Care System, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Departments of Medicine and Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Geriatrics Research Education and Clinical Center, Durham VA Health Care System, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Shan W Liu
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Stephen H Thomas
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Blizard Institute, Barts & The London School of Medicine, London, UK
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Condon B, Griffin A, Fitzgerald C, Shanahan E, Glynn L, O'Connor M, Hayes C, Manning M, Galvin R, Leahy A, Robinson K. Older adults experience of transition to the community from the emergency department: a qualitative evidence synthesis. BMC Geriatr 2024; 24:233. [PMID: 38448831 PMCID: PMC10916040 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-024-04751-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
AIM Older adults comprise a growing proportion of Emergency Department (ED) attendees and are vulnerable to adverse outcomes following an ED visit including ED reattendance within 30 days. Interventions to reduce older adults' risk of adverse outcomes following an ED attendance are proliferating and often focus on improving the transition from the ED to the community. To optimise the effectiveness of interventions it is important to determine how older adults experience the transition from the ED to the community. This study aims to systematically review and synthesise qualitative studies reporting older adults' experiences of transition to the community from the ED. METHODS Six databases (Academic Search Complete, CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycARTICLES, PsycINFO, and Social Science Full Text) were searched in March 2022 and 2023. A seven-step approach to meta-ethnography, as described by Noblit and Hare, was used to synthesise findings across included studies. The methodological quality of the included studies was appraised using the 10-item Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) checklist for qualitative research. A study protocol was registered on PROSPERO (Registration: CRD42022287990). FINDINGS Ten studies were included, and synthesis led to the development of five themes. Unresolved symptoms reported by older adults on discharge impact their ability to manage at home (theme 1). Limited community services and unresolved symptoms drive early ED reattendance for some older adults (theme 2). Although older adults value practical support and assistance transporting home from the ED this is infrequently provided (theme 3). Accessible health information and interactions are important for understanding and self-managing health conditions on discharge from the ED (theme 4). Fragmented Care between ED and community is common, stressful and impacts on older adult's ability to manage health conditions (theme 5). A line of argument synthesis integrated these themes into one overarching concept; after an ED visit older adults often struggle to manage changed, complex, health and care needs at home, in the absence of comprehensive support and guidance. DISCUSSION/ CONCLUSION Key areas for consideration in future service and intervention development are identified in this study; ED healthcare providers should adapt their communication to the needs of older adults, provide accessible information and explicitly address expectations about symptom resolution during discharge planning. Concurrently, community health services need to be responsive to older adults' changed health and care needs after an ED visit to achieve care integration. Those developing transitional care interventions should consider older adults needs for integration of care, symptom management, clear communication and information from providers and desire to return to daily life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Condon
- School of Allied Health, Faculty of Education and Health Sciences, Ageing Research Centre, Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland.
| | - Anne Griffin
- School of Allied Health, Faculty of Education and Health Sciences, Ageing Research Centre, Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Christine Fitzgerald
- School of Allied Health, Faculty of Education and Health Sciences, Ageing Research Centre, Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Elaine Shanahan
- Department of Ageing and Therapeutics, University Hospital Limerick, Dooradoyle, Limerick, Ireland
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Education and Health Sciences, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Liam Glynn
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Education and Health Sciences, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
- HRB, Primary Care Clinical Trials Network, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Margaret O'Connor
- Department of Ageing and Therapeutics, University Hospital Limerick, Dooradoyle, Limerick, Ireland
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Education and Health Sciences, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Christina Hayes
- School of Allied Health, Faculty of Education and Health Sciences, Ageing Research Centre, Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Molly Manning
- School of Allied Health, Faculty of Education and Health Sciences, Ageing Research Centre, Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Rose Galvin
- School of Allied Health, Faculty of Education and Health Sciences, Ageing Research Centre, Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Aoife Leahy
- School of Allied Health, Faculty of Education and Health Sciences, Ageing Research Centre, Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
- Department of Ageing and Therapeutics, University Hospital Limerick, Dooradoyle, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Katie Robinson
- School of Allied Health, Faculty of Education and Health Sciences, Ageing Research Centre, Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
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Sarıca Çevik H, Öztürk Emiral G, Özcan MF, Aldemir F, Çevik HB. Health literacy in orthopaedic lower limb trauma patients: A cross-sectional survey study. Orthop Traumatol Surg Res 2024; 110:103605. [PMID: 36963662 DOI: 10.1016/j.otsr.2023.103605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aim of this study was to investigate orthopaedic lower limb trauma patients' comprehension regarding the affected bone, the surgical implant used, and postoperative instructions, and to evaluate the relationship between sociodemographic features and health literacy. HYPOTHESIS There is a relationship between health literacy levels, the medical awareness of orthopaedic trauma patients and sociodemographic characteristics. MATERIAL AND METHODS The cross-sectional survey study was conducted from June to September 2021 in the orthopaedic clinic of a level 1 trauma centre. The study group consisted of 225 patients with a surgically treated unilateral lower limb fracture. The questionnaire consisted of 3 parts: (1) sociodemographic information, (2) knowledge about ongoing orthopaedic treatment, and (3) 16-item version of The European Health Literacy Survey (HLS-EU-Q16). RESULTS Of the patients in the study, 46% were not aware that they were using thromboembolism prophylaxis, and 10% did not use the prophylaxis. More than half of the patients did not know which bone was fractured, three-quarters did not know what type of implant had been used for the fracture fixation, and approximately 90% of the patients did not know their weight-bearing status and the expected healing time after surgery. Inadequacy of HLS-EU-Q16 score with a median of 34.4, (range, 0-50) was 38.7% (n=87). DISCUSSION Orthopaedic lower limb trauma patients demonstrated inadequate health literacy with low comprehension of their injuries, surgeries, and discharge schemes. This study's results show the need to promote more effective communication between orthopaedic trauma patients and healthcare providers. Identifying inadequate health literacy in patients and developing appropriate interventions before discharge may help improve outcomes. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE II; cross sectional.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Muhammed Fazıl Özcan
- Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Dışkapı Yıldırım Beyazıt Research and Training Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Fatihcan Aldemir
- Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Dışkapı Yıldırım Beyazıt Research and Training Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Hüseyin Bilgehan Çevik
- Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Dışkapı Yıldırım Beyazıt Research and Training Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Ankara, Turkey
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Sheber M, McKnight M, Liebzeit D, Seaman A, Husser EK, Buck H, Reisinger HS, Lee S. Older adults' goals of care in the emergency department setting: A qualitative study guided by the 4Ms framework. J Am Coll Emerg Physicians Open 2023; 4:e13012. [PMID: 37520079 PMCID: PMC10375261 DOI: 10.1002/emp2.13012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background We sought to identify what matters to older adults (60 years and older) presenting to the emergency department (ED) and the challenges or concerns they identify related to medication, mobility, and mentation to inform how the 4Ms framework could improve care of older adults in the ED setting. Methods A qualitative study was conducted using the 4Ms to identify what matters to older adults (≥60 years old) presenting to the ED and what challenges or concerns they identify related to medication, mobility, and mentation. We conducted semi-structured interviews with a convenience sample of patients in a single ED. Interview guide responses and interviewer field notes were entered into REDCap. Interviews were reviewed by the research team (2 coders per interview) who inductively assigned codes. A codebook was created through an iterative process and was used to group codes into themes and sub-themes within the 4Ms framework. Results A total of 20 ED patients participated in the interviews lasting 30-60 minutes. Codes identified for "what matters" included problem-oriented expectation, coordination and continuity, staying engaged, being with family, and getting back home. Codes related to the other 4Ms (medication, mobility, and mentation) described challenges. Medication challenges included: non-adherence, side effects, polypharmacy, and knowledge. Mobility challenges included physical activity and independence. Last, mentation challenges included memory concerns, depressed mood, and stress and worry. Conclusions Our study used the 4Ms to identify "what matters" to older adults presenting to the ED and the challenges they face regarding medication, mobility, and mentation. Understanding what matters to patients and the specific challenges they face can help shape and individualize a patient-centered approach to care to facilitate the goals of care discussion and handoff to the next care team.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Sheber
- Department of Emergency MedicineUniversity of Iowa Carver College of MedicineIowa CityIowaUSA
| | - Mackenzie McKnight
- Department of Emergency MedicineUniversity of Iowa Carver College of MedicineIowa CityIowaUSA
| | | | - Aaron Seaman
- Department of Internal MedicineUniversity of Iowa Carver College of MedicineIowa CityIowaUSA
| | - Erica K. Husser
- Ross and Carol Nese College of NursingPennsylvania State University, University ParkPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Harleah Buck
- University of Iowa College of NursingIowa CityIowaUSA
| | - Heather S. Reisinger
- Department of Internal MedicineUniversity of Iowa Carver College of MedicineIowa CityIowaUSA
| | - Sangil Lee
- Department of Emergency MedicineUniversity of Iowa Carver College of MedicineDepartment of EpidemiologyUniversity of Iowa College of Public HealthIowa CityIowaUSA
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van Loon-van Gaalen M, Voshol IE, van der Linden MC, Gussekloo J, van der Mast RC. Frequencies and reasons for unplanned emergency department return visits by older adults: a cohort study. BMC Geriatr 2023; 23:309. [PMID: 37198554 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-023-04021-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As unplanned Emergency Department (ED) return visits (URVs) are associated with adverse health outcomes in older adults, many EDs have initiated post-discharge interventions to reduce URVs. Unfortunately, most interventions fail to reduce URVs, including telephone follow-up after ED discharge, investigated in a recent trial. To understand why these interventions were not effective, we analyzed patient and ED visit characteristics and reasons for URVs within 30 days for patients aged ≥ 70 years. METHODS Data was used from a randomized controlled trial, investigating whether telephone follow-up after ED discharge reduced URVs compared to a satisfaction survey call. Only observational data from control group patients were used. Patient and index ED visit characteristics were compared between patients with and without URVs. Two independent researchers determined the reasons for URVs and categorized them into: patient-related, illness-related, new complaints and other reasons. Associations were examined between the number of URVs per patient and the categories of reasons for URVs. RESULTS Of the 1659 patients, 222 (13.4%) had at least one URV within 30 days. Male sex, ED visit in the 30 days before the index ED visit, triage category "urgent", longer length of ED stay, urinary tract problems, and dyspnea were associated with URVs. Of the 222 patients with an URV, 31 (14%) returned for patient-related reasons, 95 (43%) for illness-related reasons, 76 (34%) for a new complaint and 20 (9%) for other reasons. URVs of patients who returned ≥ 3 times were mostly illness-related (72%). CONCLUSION As the majority of patients had an URV for illness-related reasons or new complaints, these data fuel the discussion as to whether URVs can or should be prevented. TRIAL REGISTRATION For this cohort study, we used data from a randomized controlled trial (RCT). This trial was pre-registered in the Netherlands Trial Register with number NTR6815 on the 7th of November 2017.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merel van Loon-van Gaalen
- Emergency Department, Haaglanden Medical Center, P.O. Box 432, 2501 CK, The Hague, The Netherlands.
- Department of Psychiatry, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | | | | | - Jacobijn Gussekloo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Gerontology and Geriatrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Roos C van der Mast
- Department of Psychiatry, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, CAPRI-University Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
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Hanson S, Lassen A, Nielsen D, Ryg J, Forero R, Brabrand M. Resuscitation Preferences of Older Acutely Admitted Medical and Mentally Competent Patients with One and Six Months Follow-up. Resuscitation 2023:109836. [PMID: 37196801 DOI: 10.1016/j.resuscitation.2023.109836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
AIM Determining patients' cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) preferences in the emergency department (ED) is common practice but the stability of these preferences and their recollection by patients has been questioned. Therefore, this study assessed the stability and recall of CPR preferences of older patients at and following ED discharge. METHODS This survey-based cohort study was conducted between February and September 2020 at three EDs in Denmark. It consecutively asked mentally competent patients aged 65 years or older who were admitted to hospital through the ED and then one and six months later "In your current state of health, do you wish that physicians should try to intervene if your heart stops beating?" Possible responses were confined to "definitely yes", "definitely no", "uncertain", and "prefer not to answer". RESULTS In total, 3688 patients admitted to hospital via the ED patients were screened, 1766 were eligible and 491 (27.8%) were included: median age was 76 (IQR 71-82) years, and 257 (52.3%) were men. One third of patients who expressed definite yes or no preferences in ED had changed their preference at one month follow-up. Only 90 (27.4%) and 94 (35.7%) patients recalled their preferences at one and six months follow-up, respectively. CONCLUSION and Relevance In this study, one-in-three older ED patients who initially expressed definite resuscitation preferences had changed their minds at one month follow-up. Preferences were more stable at six months but only a minority were able to recall their preferences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stine Hanson
- Department of Regional Health Research, Center-Esbjerg, University of Southern Denmark.
| | - Annmarie Lassen
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Odense University Hospital, Denmark, Institute of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark
| | - Dorthe Nielsen
- Family focused healthcare research Centre, Odense University Hospital; Geriatric Research Unit, Department of Geriatric Medicine, Odense University Hospital, Denmark, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark
| | - Jesper Ryg
- Geriatric Research Unit, Department of Geriatric Medicine, Odense University Hospital, Denmark, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark
| | - Roberto Forero
- Simpson Centre for Health Services Research, School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Medicine & Health, SWS Clinical Campuses, Liverpool Hospital, UNSW, Sydney and Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Liverpool Hospital, Liverpool BC, 1871, NSW, Australia
| | - Mikkel Brabrand
- Department of Emergency, Medicine, Hospital of South West Jutland, Denmark, University of Southern Denmark, Institute of Regional Health Research, Center-Esbjerg, University of Southern Denmark
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Atzema CL. There are limited amenities on the sailboat we put older persons on for their post emergency department journey. Evid Based Nurs 2023; 26:79. [PMID: 36572509 DOI: 10.1136/ebnurs-2022-103612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Clare L Atzema
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- ICES, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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McQuown CM, Snell KT, Abbate LM, Jetter EM, Blatnik JK, Ragsdale LC. Telehealth for geriatric post-emergency department visits to promote age-friendly care. Health Serv Res 2023; 58 Suppl 1:16-25. [PMID: 36054025 PMCID: PMC9843080 DOI: 10.1111/1475-6773.14058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe a feasibility pilot study for older adults that addresses the digital divide, unmet health care needs, and the 4Ms of Age-Friendly Health Systems via the emergency department (ED) follow-up home visits supported by telehealth. DATA SOURCES AND STUDY SETTING Data sources were a pre-implementation site survey and pilot phase individual-level patient data from six US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) EDs. STUDY DESIGN A pre-implementation survey assessed existing geriatric ED processes. In the pilot called SCOUTS (Supporting Community Outpatient, Urgent care & Telehealth Services), sites identified high-risk patients during an ED visit. After ED discharge, Intermediate Care Technicians (ICTs, former military medics), performed follow-up telephone, or home visits. During the follow-up visit, ICTs identified "what matters," performed geriatric screens aligned with Age-Friendly Health Systems, observed home safety risks, assisted with video telehealth check-ins with ED providers, and provided care coordination. SCOUTS visit data were recorded in the patient's electronic medical record using a standardized template. DATA COLLECTION/EXTRACTION METHODS Sites were surveyed via electronic form. Administrative pilot data extracted from VA Corporate Data Warehouse, May-October 2021. PRINCIPLE FINDINGS Site surveys showed none of the EDs had a formalized way of identifying the 4 M "what matters." During the pilot, ICT performed 56 telephone and 247 home visits. All home visits included a telehealth visit with an ED provider (n = 244) or geriatrician (n = 3). ICTs identified 44 modifiable home fall risks and 99 unmet care needs, recommended 80 pieces of medical equipment, placed 36 specialty care consults, and connected 180 patients to a Patient Aligned Care Team member for follow-up. CONCLUSIONS A post-ED follow-up program in which former military medics perform geriatric screens and care coordination is feasible. Combining telehealth and home visits allows providers to address what matters and unmet care needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen M. McQuown
- Geriatric Research Education and Clinical CenterLouis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical CenterClevelandOhioUSA
| | - Kristina T. Snell
- U.S. Department of Veterans AffairsOffice of Primary CareWashingtonDistrict of ColumbiaUSA
| | - Lauren M. Abbate
- Eastern Colorado Geriatric Research Education and Clinical CenterRocky Mountain Regional VA Medical CenterAuroraColoradoUSA
| | - Ethan M. Jetter
- University of Florida College of MedicineU.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Emergency MedicineWashingtonDistrict of ColumbiaUSA
| | - Jennifer K. Blatnik
- Ambulatory Care DepartmentLouis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical CenterClevelandOhioUSA
| | - Luna C. Ragsdale
- Duke UniversityDepartment of Surgery, Division of Emergency Medicine, Emergency Medicine Department, Durham VA Health Care SystemDurhamNorth CarolinaUSA
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Rowe A, Knox M. The Impact of the Healthcare Environment on Patient Experience in the Emergency Department: A Systematic Review to Understand the Implications for Patient-Centered Design. HERD-HEALTH ENVIRONMENTS RESEARCH & DESIGN JOURNAL 2022; 16:310-329. [PMID: 36541114 PMCID: PMC10133779 DOI: 10.1177/19375867221137097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Background: The emergency department (ED) is a complex, volatile, and limited-resource healthcare setting. Many environmental factors, including high patient volumes, overburdened staff, long waits, and a tense atmosphere, converge in the ED. The objective of this study was to perform a systematic review of extant literature to understand how the ED environment drives patient experience and identify methodological or empirical insights for patient-centered ED design. Methods: We searched eight academic databases (Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, Medline [Ovid], CINAHL, PyscInfo, Compendex, and IEEE Explore) to identify studies that employed observational (descriptive) or interventional (evaluative) methodology. We performed a co-citation analysis of potentially eligible articles and a qualitative synthesis of findings from studies included in our final sample. Results: Our search yielded 117 records. Of the 35 potentially relevant articles, 18 were published in the last 5 years, and 50% were authored by investigators in the United States. We used 33 articles for a co-citation analysis, revealing three interdisciplinary clusters and promising potential for collaboration across fields. Thirty articles were subjected to a full-text analysis, resulting in the identification of three overarching dimensions linking the ED environment to patient experience. Conclusion: The most commonly identified factors influencing patient experience in the ED included overcrowding and wait times, privacy, and communication; however, existing literature is limited. More research is needed to understand how ED environments configure patient experience and can be improved through design. Particularly, there is little research on participatory interventional strategies in the ED, despite strong evidence suggesting a need for stakeholder participation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aidan Rowe
- Department of Art & Design, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Design x Health Research Innovation Lab (DHRIL), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Michelle Knox
- Design x Health Research Innovation Lab (DHRIL), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Mi RZ, Jacobsohn GC, Wu J, Shah MN, Jones CMC, Caprio TV, Cushman JT, Lohmeier M, Kind AJH, Shah DV. Coaching older adults discharged home from the emergency department: The role of competence and emotion in following up with outpatient clinicians. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2022; 105:3446-3452. [PMID: 36064518 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2022.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Motivating older adults to follow up with an outpatient clinician after discharge from emergency departments (ED) is beneficial yet challenging. We aimed to answer whether psychological needs for motivation and discrete emotions observed by care transition coaches would predict this behavioral outcome. METHODS Community-dwelling older adults following ED discharge were recruited from three EDs in two U.S. states. We examined home visit notes documented by coaches (N = 725). Retrospective chart reviews of medical records tracked participants' health care utilization for 30 days. RESULTS Observed knowledge-based competence predicted higher likelihood of outpatient follow-up within 30 days, while observed sadness predicted a lower likelihood of follow-up within seven days following discharge. Moreover, participants who demonstrated happiness were marginally more likely to have an in-person follow-up within seven days, and those who demonstrated knowledge-based competence were more likely to have an electronic follow-up within 30 days. CONCLUSIONS Knowledge-based competence and emotions, as observed and documented in coach notes, can predict older adults' subsequent outpatient follow-up following their ED-discharge. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Intervention programs might encourage coaches to check knowledge-based competence and to observe emotions in addition to delivering the content. Coaches could also customize strategies for patients with different recommended timeframes of follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ranran Z Mi
- School of Communication, Media and Journalism, Kean University, Union, NJ, USA.
| | - Gwen C Jacobsohn
- BerbeeWalsh Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Jiaxi Wu
- College of Communication, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Manish N Shah
- BerbeeWalsh Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Department of Population Health Sciences, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Division of Geriatrics and Gerontology, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Courtney M C Jones
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA; Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Thomas V Caprio
- Division of Geriatrics, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Jeremy T Cushman
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA; Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Michael Lohmeier
- BerbeeWalsh Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Amy J H Kind
- Division of Geriatrics and Gerontology, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA; William S. Middleton Veterans Affairs Geriatrics Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Dhavan V Shah
- School of Journalism and Mass Communication, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Center for Health Enhancement Systems Studies, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
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Gettel CJ, Serina PT, Uzamere I, Hernandez-Bigos K, Venkatesh AK, Rising KL, Goldberg EM, Feder SL, Cohen AB, Hwang U. Emergency department-to-community care transition barriers: A qualitative study of older adults. J Am Geriatr Soc 2022; 70:3152-3162. [PMID: 35779278 PMCID: PMC9669106 DOI: 10.1111/jgs.17950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over one-half of older adults are discharged to the community after emergency department (ED) visits, and studies have shown there is increased risk of adverse health outcomes in the immediate post-discharge period. Understanding the experiences of older adults during ED-to-community care transitions has the potential to improve geriatric emergency clinical care and inform intervention development. We therefore sought to assess barriers experienced by older adults during ED-to-community care transitions. METHODS We conducted a qualitative analysis of community-dwelling cognitively intact patients aged 65 years and older receiving care in four diverse EDs from a single U.S. healthcare system. We constructed a conceptual framework a priori to guide the development and iterative revision of a codebook, used purposive sampling, and conducted recorded, semi-structured interviews using a standardized guide. Two researchers coded the professionally transcribed data using a combined deductive and inductive approach and analyzed transcripts to identify dominant themes and representative quotations. RESULTS Among 25 participants, 20 (80%) were women and 17 (68%) were white. We identified four barriers during the ED-to-community care transition: (1) ED discharge process was abrupt with missing information regarding symptom explanation and performed testing, (2) navigating follow-up outpatient clinical care was challenging, (3) new physical limitations and fears hinder performance of baseline activities, and (4) major and minor ramifications for caregivers impact an older adult's willingness to request or accept assistance. CONCLUSIONS Older adults identified barriers to successful ED-to-community care transitions that can inform the development of novel and effective interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cameron J. Gettel
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Peter T. Serina
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Ivie Uzamere
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Kizzy Hernandez-Bigos
- Section of Geriatrics, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Arjun K. Venkatesh
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Kristin L. Rising
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Center for Connected Care, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- College of Nursing, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Elizabeth M. Goldberg
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Department of Health Services, Policy and Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Shelli L. Feder
- Yale University School of Nursing, Orange, CT, USA
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Andrew B. Cohen
- Section of Geriatrics, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Ula Hwang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Geriatrics Research, Education and Clinical Center, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
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12
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Emergency department opioid discharge instructions: a multidisciplinary national Delphi study. CAN J EMERG MED 2022; 24:641-649. [PMID: 35969328 DOI: 10.1007/s43678-022-00352-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Currently, there are no Canadian guidelines for discharge instruction to be given to patients receiving an opioid prescription in the ED. This likely contributes to inadequate discharge instructions for these potentially dangerous medications. The principal goal of this study was to develop an interdisciplinary Canadian consensus regarding important concepts to be included in written opioid discharge instructions within the ED setting. METHODS We conducted a modified Delphi study between May and August 2021. The national multidisciplinary panel consisted of 23 healthcare professionals and one patient partner. The survey consisted of 19 initial concepts developed after a review of the literature and a meeting with local experts. The panel added four new concepts after the first survey round. Three rounds of online surveys were distributed in total. Panel consensus was defined a priori as a disagreement index score less than 1, in accordance with the RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method. RESULTS We achieved a 100% response rate in round one and a 96% response rate in rounds two and three of our Delphi study. There was group consensus (disagreement index = 0.66, median importance = 9) that all patients receiving opioid prescriptions from the ED should receive written discharge instructions. The interdisciplinary panel arrived at a consensus on 21/23 concepts for ED opioid discharge instructions. The concepts with the highest level of agreement were related to minimizing the use of the prescribed opioid medication and opioid use safety (mixing with drugs/alcohol, storage, and impairment). CONCLUSION This Delphi study with a national, multidisciplinary panel achieved consensus on 21 concepts that should be included in written discharge instructions to patients receiving an opioid prescription upon discharge from the ED.
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13
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Coombs NM, Porter JE, Barbagallo M, Plummer V. Public health education by emergency nurses: A scoping review and narrative synthesis. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2022; 105:1181-1187. [PMID: 34521560 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2021.08.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify the extent, range, and nature of the evidence on public health education provided by emergency nurses. METHODS A scoping review, using the methodological guidance of Joanna Briggs Institute, was conducted to scope and map the literature and research activity. Using predetermined criteria, databases, grey literature, and reference lists were searched for eligible sources. At least two authors reviewed each article. A narrative synthesis methodology was utilised to analyse and report the findings. RESULTS There was significant methodological heterogeneity between sources (n = 6). Three themes were identified: 1) Benefits of the system: An opportunity to inform the public, 2) The barriers: Time pressures and being prepared and 3) The strategies: Plan for structured and created teachable moments CONCLUSION: Limited research is being conducted in this area. Further research is needed to understand emergency nurse's practice and attitudes towards providing public health messages. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Emergency nurses need to utilise the 'teachable moment' for every emergency admission, providing opportunistic preventative education to improve health outcomes and reduce demand on the healthcare system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole M Coombs
- School of Health/Nursing, Federation University Australia, PO Box 3191 Gippsland Mail Centre 3841, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Joanne E Porter
- School of Health/Nursing, Federation University Australia, PO Box 3191 Gippsland Mail Centre 3841, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Michael Barbagallo
- School of Health/Nursing, Federation University Australia, PO Box 3191 Gippsland Mail Centre 3841, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Virginia Plummer
- School of Health/Nursing, Federation University Australia, PO Box 3191 Gippsland Mail Centre 3841, Victoria, Australia.
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Shah MN, Jacobsohn GC, Jones CMC, Green RK, Caprio TV, Cochran AL, Cushman JT, Lohmeier M, Kind AJ. Care transitions intervention reduces ED revisits in cognitively impaired patients. ALZHEIMER'S & DEMENTIA (NEW YORK, N. Y.) 2022; 8:e12261. [PMID: 35310533 PMCID: PMC8919246 DOI: 10.1002/trc2.12261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Introduction About half of older adults with impaired cognition who are discharged home from the emergency department (ED) return for further care within 30 days. We tested the effect of an adapted Care Transitions Intervention (CTI) at reducing ED revisits in this vulnerable population. Methods We conducted a pre-planned subgroup analysis of community-dwelling, cognitively impaired older (age ≥60 years) participants from a randomized controlled trial testing the effectiveness of the CTI adapted for ED-to-home transitions. The parent study recruited ED patients from three university-affiliated hospitals from 2016 to 2019. Subjects eligible for this sub-analysis had to: (1) have a primary care provider within these health systems; (2) be discharged to a community residence; (3) not receive care management or hospice services; and (4) be cognitively impaired in the ED, as determined by a score >10 on the Blessed Orientation Memory Concentration Test. The primary outcome, ED revisits within 30 days of discharge, was abstracted from medical records and evaluated using logistic regression. Results Of our sub-sample (N = 81, 36 control, 45 treatment), 57% were female and the mean age was 78 years. Multivariate analysis, adjusted for the presence of moderate to severe depression and inadequate health literacy, found that the CTI significantly reduced the odds of a repeat ED visit within 30 days (odds ratio [OR] 0.25, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.07 to 0.90) but not 14 days (OR 1.01, 95% CI 0.26 to 3.93). Multivariate analysis of outpatient follow-up found no significant effects. Discussion Community-dwelling older adults with cognitive impairment receiving the CTI following ED discharge experienced fewer ED revisits within 30 days compared to usual care. Further studies must confirm and expand upon this finding, identifying features with greatest benefit to patients and caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manish N. Shah
- BerbeeWalsh Department of Emergency MedicineUniversity of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public HealthMadisonWisconsinUSA
- Department of Medicine (Geriatrics and Gerontology)University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public HealthMadisonWisconsinUSA
- Department of Population Health SciencesUniversity of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public HealthMadisonWisconsinUSA
- Center for Health Disparities ResearchUniversity of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public HealthMadisonWisconsinUSA
- Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research CenterUniversity of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public HealthMadisonWisconsinUSA
| | - Gwen C. Jacobsohn
- BerbeeWalsh Department of Emergency MedicineUniversity of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public HealthMadisonWisconsinUSA
| | - Courtney MC Jones
- Department of Emergency MedicineUniversity of Rochester Medical CenterRochesterNew YorkUSA
- Department of Public Health SciencesUniversity of Rochester Medical CenterRochesterNew YorkUSA
| | - Rebecca K. Green
- BerbeeWalsh Department of Emergency MedicineUniversity of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public HealthMadisonWisconsinUSA
| | - Thomas V. Caprio
- Department of Medicine, Division of GeriatricsUniversity of Rochester Medical CenterRochesterNew YorkUSA
| | - Amy L. Cochran
- Department of Population Health SciencesUniversity of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public HealthMadisonWisconsinUSA
- Department of MathematicsUniversity of Wisconsin‐MadisonMadisonWisconsinUSA
| | - Jeremy T. Cushman
- Department of Emergency MedicineUniversity of Rochester Medical CenterRochesterNew YorkUSA
- Department of Public Health SciencesUniversity of Rochester Medical CenterRochesterNew YorkUSA
| | - Michael Lohmeier
- BerbeeWalsh Department of Emergency MedicineUniversity of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public HealthMadisonWisconsinUSA
| | - Amy J.H. Kind
- Department of Medicine (Geriatrics and Gerontology)University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public HealthMadisonWisconsinUSA
- Center for Health Disparities ResearchUniversity of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public HealthMadisonWisconsinUSA
- Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research CenterUniversity of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public HealthMadisonWisconsinUSA
- William S. Middleton VA Geriatrics Research Education and Clinical Center (GRECC)MadisonWisconsinUSA
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de Wit A, de Heide J, Cummins P, van Bruchem-van de Scheur A, Bhagwandien R, Lenzen M. A quality improvement initiative for patient knowledge comprehension during the discharge procedure using a novel computer-generated patient-tailored discharge document in cardiology. Digit Health 2022; 8:20552076221129079. [PMID: 36185392 PMCID: PMC9515543 DOI: 10.1177/20552076221129079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The duration of hospital admissions has shortened significantly. This
challenges healthcare professionals to provide the necessary information and
instructions in a limited time. Patient-tailored discharge information may
improve the patient's understanding of the discharge information but may
also be time-consuming. The objective of this descriptive quality
improvement study was to evaluate patient comprehension of discharge
information using a novel computer-generated patient-tailored discharge
document. Methods A prospective pre-post study comparing patient-tailored discharge information
with conventional discharge information, for patients undergoing an
electrophysiological procedure during two periods of six weeks between
January and March 2016. Group I received conventional discharge information
(n = 55). Group II received a computer-generated,
patient-tailored discharge document (n = 57). Their
comprehension of the discharge information was evaluated using a
peer-reviewed questionnaire distributed among patients, comparing groups I
and II using Likert scales. Nurses and nurse practitioners evaluated the use
of personalized discharge information by means of a short survey. Results In terms of discharge information, comprehensibility was equivalent; however,
an increase in comprehension was observed in patients seeking a telephone
consultation with the cardiology department within one-week post-discharge.
A reduction in discharge preparation time and an increased uniformity of
discharge information were reported by nurses. Nurse practitioners found the
web tool easy to use and time-saving. Conclusions In this study, computer-generated patient-tailored discharge information was
equivalent to conventional discharge information. A more positive trend was
seen for patients who initiated teleconsultation with the hospital within
one-week post-discharge. This suggests that for this subgroup the
patient-tailored discharge web tool might lead to an improvement in care.
However, more research with a larger number of participants is needed to
confirm this trend.
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Affiliation(s)
- André de Wit
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - John de Heide
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Paul Cummins
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Mattie Lenzen
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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16
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van Loon‐van Gaalen M, van der Linden MC, Gussekloo J, van der Mast RC. Telephone follow-up to reduce unplanned hospital returns for older emergency department patients: A randomized trial. J Am Geriatr Soc 2021; 69:3157-3166. [PMID: 34173229 PMCID: PMC9290482 DOI: 10.1111/jgs.17336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES Telephone follow-up calls could optimize the transition from the emergency department (ED) to home for older patients. However, the effects on hospital return rates are not clear. We investigated whether telephone follow-up reduces unplanned hospitalizations and/or unplanned ED return visits within 30 days of ED discharge. DESIGN Pragmatic randomized controlled trial with allocation by month; odd months intervention group, even months control group. SETTING Two ED locations of a non-academic teaching hospital in The Netherlands. PARTICIPANTS Community-dwelling adults aged ≥70 years, discharged home from the ED were randomized to the intervention group (N = 4732) or control group (N = 5104). INTERVENTION Intervention group patients: semi-scripted telephone call from an ED nurse within 24 h after discharge to identify post-discharge problems and review discharge instructions. Control group patients: scripted satisfaction survey telephone call. MEASUREMENTS Primary outcome: total number of unplanned hospitalizations and/or ED return visits within 30 days of ED discharge. SECONDARY OUTCOMES separate numbers of unplanned hospitalizations and ED return visits. Subgroup analysis by age, sex, living condition, and degree of crowding in the ED at discharge. RESULTS Overall, 42% were males, and median age was 78 years. In the intervention group, 1516 of 4732 patients (32%) consented, and in the control group 1659 of 5104 (33%) patients. Unplanned 30-day hospitalization and/or ED return visit was found in 16% of intervention group patients and 14% of control group patients (odds ratio 1.16; 95% confidence interval: 0.96-1.42). Also, no statistically significant differences were found in secondary outcome measures. Within the subgroups, the intervention did not have beneficial effects for the intervention group. CONCLUSION Telephone follow-up after ED discharge in older patients did not result in reduction of unplanned hospital admissions and/or ED return visits within 30 days. These results raise the question of whether other outcomes could be improved by post-discharge ED telephone follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jacobijn Gussekloo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Gerontology and GeriatricsLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
- Department of Public Health and Primary CareLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Roos C. van der Mast
- Department of PsychiatryLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
- Department of PsychiatryCAPRI‐University AntwerpAntwerpBelgium
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17
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Jaffe TA, Wang D, Loveless B, Lai D, Loesche M, White B, Raja AS, He S. A Scoping Review of Emergency Department Discharge Risk Stratification. West J Emerg Med 2021; 22:1218-1226. [PMID: 34787544 PMCID: PMC8597698 DOI: 10.5811/westjem.2021.6.52969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Although emergency department (ED) discharge presents patient-safety challenges and opportunities, the ways in which EDs address discharge risk in the general ED population remains disparate and largely uncharacterized. In this study our goal was to conduct a review of how EDs identify and target patients at increased risk at time of discharge. METHODS We conducted a literature search to explore how EDs assess patient risk upon discharge, including a review of PubMed and gray literature. After independently screening articles for inclusion, we recorded study characteristics including outcome measures, patient risk factors, and tool descriptions. Based on this review and discussion among collaborators, major themes were identified. RESULTS PubMed search yielded 384 potentially eligible articles. After title and abstract review, we screened 235 for potential inclusion. After full text and reference review, supplemented by Google Scholar and gray literature reviews, we included 30 articles for full review. Three major themes were elucidated: 1) Multiple studies include retrospective risk assessment, whereas the use of point-of-care risk assessment tools appears limited; 2) of the point-of-care tools that exist, inputs and outcome measures varied, and few were applicable to the general ED population; and 3) while many studies describe initiatives to improve the discharge process, few describe assessment of post-discharge resource needs. CONCLUSION Numerous studies describe factors associated with an increased risk of readmission and adverse events after ED discharge, but few describe point-of-care tools used by physicians for the general ED population. Future work is needed to investigate standardized tools that assess ED discharge risk and patients' needs upon ED discharge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Todd A Jaffe
- Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Affiliated Emergency Medicine Residency, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Daniel Wang
- Kansas City University School of Medicine, Kansas City, Missouri
| | - Bosten Loveless
- Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Ivins, Utah
| | - Debbie Lai
- University College of London, Division of Psychology and Language Sciences, London, England
| | - Michael Loesche
- Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Affiliated Emergency Medicine Residency, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Benjamin White
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Emergency Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts.,Harvard Medical School, Department of Emergency Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ali S Raja
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Emergency Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts.,Harvard Medical School, Department of Emergency Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Shuhan He
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Emergency Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts.,Harvard Medical School, Department of Emergency Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
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18
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Hesselink G, Sir Ö, Koster N, Tolsma C, Munsterman M, Olde Rikkert M, Schoon Y. Teach-back of discharge instructions in the emergency department: a pre-post pilot evaluation. Emerg Med J 2021; 39:139-146. [PMID: 34140321 PMCID: PMC8788250 DOI: 10.1136/emermed-2020-210168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 05/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Objectives With the 'teach-back' method, patients or carers repeat back what they understand, so that professionals can confirm comprehension and correct misunderstandings. The effectiveness of teach-back has been underexamined, particularly for older patients discharged from the emergency department (ED). We aimed to determine whether teach-back would reduce ED revisits and whether it would increase patients’ retention of discharge instructions, improve self-management at home and increase satisfaction with the provision of instructions. Methods A nonrandomised pre–post pilot evaluation in the ED of one Dutch academic hospital including patients discharged from the ED receiving standard discharge care (pre) and teach-back (post). Primary outcomes were ED-revisits within 7 days and within 8–30 days postdischarge. Secondary outcomes for a subsample of older adults were retention of instructions, self-management 72 hours after discharge and satisfaction with the provision of discharge instructions. Results A total of 648 patients were included, 154 were older adults. ED revisits within 7 days and within 8–30 days were lower in the teach-back group compared with those receiving standard discharge care: adjusted odds ratios (AORs) of 0.23 (95% CI 0.05 to 1.07) and 0.42 (95% CI 0.14 to 1.33), respectively. Participants in the teach-back group had an increased likelihood of full knowledge retention on information related to their ED diagnosis and treatment (AOR 2.19; 95% CI 1.01 to 4.75; p=0.048), medication (AOR 14.89; 95% CI 4.12 to 53.85; p>0.001) and follow-up appointments (AOR 3.86; 95% CI 1.33 to 10.19; p=0.012). Use of teach-back was not significantly associated with improved self-management and higher satisfaction with discharge instructions. Discharge conversations were generally shorter for participants receiving teach-back. Conclusions Discharging patients from the ED with a relatively simple and feasible teach-back method can contribute to safer and better transitional care from the ED to home.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gijs Hesselink
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands .,IQ healthcare, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Özcan Sir
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Nadia Koster
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Carolien Tolsma
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Maartje Munsterman
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Marcel Olde Rikkert
- Department of Geriatrics, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Yvonne Schoon
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands.,Department of Geriatrics, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
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19
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Elliott R, Mei J, Wormleaton N, Fry M. Interventions for the discharge of older people to their home from the emergency department: a systematic review. Australas Emerg Care 2021; 25:1-12. [PMID: 34112626 DOI: 10.1016/j.auec.2021.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinicians have limited evidence on which to base their practice to effectively discharge older people from emergency. The aim of the review was to assess the effectiveness of interventions used for the discharge of older people from the emergency department to their home in the community by emergency clinicians. METHODS The PRISMA guidelines were followed. The search comprised seven databases including CINAHL Complete, Medline and EMBASE, and additionally unpublished literature sources including trial registries and theses databases. The results were presented for three outcomes: mortality; emergency department representation after the index visit; and physical function. A narrative analysis was performed. RESULTS Twenty-five studies met the inclusion criteria; 13 RCTs and 12 quasi-experimental. Risk of bias was moderate to high. There was a trend towards reduced probability of representing to the emergency department within 3 months of the index visit for individualised focussed elder discharge health interventions. Results were equivocal for other outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Greater clarity and consensus is needed to determine the most appropriate discharge measures, screening tools, information sources and discharge roles for the emergency setting. Rigorous multicentre trials to improve the evidence on which to base this aspect of emergency care are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosalind Elliott
- Nursing and Midwifery Research Centre, Nursing and Midwifery Directorate, Northern Sydney Local Health District, St Leonards, NSW 2065, Australia; Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, 2007 NSW, Australia.
| | - Joy Mei
- Emergency Department, Hornsby Hospital, Northern Sydney Local Health District, Palmerston Road, Hornsby, NSW 2077, Australia
| | - Nicola Wormleaton
- NSLHD Libraries, Royal North Shore Hospital, Northern Sydney Local Health District, St Leonards, NSW 2065, Australia
| | - Margaret Fry
- Nursing and Midwifery Research Centre, Nursing and Midwifery Directorate, Northern Sydney Local Health District, St Leonards, NSW 2065, Australia; Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, 2007 NSW, Australia
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Bambach K, Southerland LT. Applying Geriatric Principles to Transitions of Care in the Emergency Department. Emerg Med Clin North Am 2021; 39:429-442. [PMID: 33863470 DOI: 10.1016/j.emc.2021.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Each emergency department (ED) visit represents a crucial transition of care for older adults. Systems, provider, and patient factors are barriers to safe transitions and can contribute to morbidity and mortality in older adults. Safe transitions from ED to inpatient, ED to skilled nursing facility, or ED back to the community require a holistic approach, such as the 4-Ms model-what matters (patient goals of care), medication, mentation, and mobility-along with safety and social support. Clear written and verbal communication with patients, caregivers, and other members of the interdisciplinary team is paramount in ensuring successful care transitions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly Bambach
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 376 West 10th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210, USA. https://twitter.com/kimbambach
| | - Lauren T Southerland
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 376 West 10th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
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21
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van Loon-van Gaalen M, van Winsen B, van der Linden MC, Gussekloo J, van der Mast RC. The effect of a telephone follow-up call for older patients, discharged home from the emergency department on health-related outcomes: a systematic review of controlled studies. Int J Emerg Med 2021; 14:13. [PMID: 33602115 PMCID: PMC7893958 DOI: 10.1186/s12245-021-00336-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Older patients discharged from the emergency department (ED) are at increased risk for adverse outcomes. Transitional care programs offer close surveillance after discharge, but are costly. Telephone follow-up (TFU) may be a low-cost and feasible alternative for transitional care programs, but its effects on health-related outcomes are not clear. Aim We systematically reviewed the literature to evaluate the effects of TFU by health care professionals after ED discharge to an unassisted living environment on health-related outcomes in older patients compared to controls. Methods We conducted a multiple electronic database search up until December 2019 for controlled studies examining the effects of TFU by health care professionals for patients aged ≥65 years, discharged to an unassisted living environment from a hospital ED. Two reviewers independently assessed eligibility and risk of bias. Results Of the 748 citations, two randomized controlled trials (including a total of 2120 patients) met review selection criteria. In both studies, intervention group patients received a scripted telephone intervention from a trained nurse and control patients received a patient satisfaction survey telephone call or usual care. No demonstrable benefits of TFU were found on ED return visits, hospitalization, acquisition of prescribed medication, and compliance with follow-up appointments. However, many eligible patients were not included, because they were not reached or refused to participate. Conclusions No benefits of a scripted TFU call from a nurse were found on health services utilization and discharge plan adherence by older patients after ED discharge. As the number of high-quality studies was limited, more research is needed to determine the effect and feasibility of TFU in different older populations. PROSPERO registration number CRD42019141403. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12245-021-00336-x.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merel van Loon-van Gaalen
- Emergency Department, Haaglanden Medical Center, P.O. Box 432, 2501, CK, The Hague, The Netherlands.
| | - Britt van Winsen
- Emergency Department, Haaglanden Medical Center, P.O. Box 432, 2501, CK, The Hague, The Netherlands
| | | | - Jacobijn Gussekloo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Gerontology and Geriatrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Roos C van der Mast
- Department of Psychiatry, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Department of Psychiatry, CAPRI-University, Antwerp, Belgium
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22
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Fry M, Elliott R, Curtis K, Mei J, Fitzpatrick L, Groth R, Murphy S, Jones K, Hofman C. Family members' perceptions of older person discharge from emergency departments. Int J Older People Nurs 2021; 16:e12365. [PMID: 33543594 DOI: 10.1111/opn.12365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Revised: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People aged over 64 years account for approximately 20% of adult emergency presentations, with up to 60% of people discharged home from emergency departments (EDs). Many older people discharged home are supported by family. OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was to explore the family members' perspectives of older people's discharge from ED to inform new alternative or innovative models of care. METHODS The design was a descriptive exploratory study. A convenience sample of family members was recruited from three EDs across Sydney, New South Wales. Telephone interviews were conducted over a six-month period and data were analysed using statistics or thematic analysis. RESULTS Interviews were conducted with 133 family members of whom the majority were female (n = 80, 60%) with a median age of 70 years (IQR 91-35). Over 87% of family members were satisfied with ED care and discharge processes that were provided to the older person. The majority (n = 129, 97%) of family members reported that they understood the treatment and perceived that the older person's condition was well managed (n = 119, 86%). The majority (n = 114, 86%) of family members reported being informed of the medical diagnosis and were confident (87%, n = 115) to continue care of the older person at home. Three themes emerged from qualitative data: (a) a sense of time-moving through ED; (b) giving voice to the impact of clinician communication; and (c) the delivery of comfort and basic care. DISCUSSION Family members reported that they were engaged in and satisfied with the older person's ED treatment and discharge. However, family members suggested that there was opportunity to improve communication consistency for ED discharge and managing the wait. CONCLUSION Clinicians need to engage with family members to optimise quality and safety. Clinicians need to understand that family members considered comfort and fundamentals of care to be an important dimension of the older person's ED management plan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Fry
- Northern Sydney Local Health District, Faculty of Health, Royal North Shore Hospital, University of Technology Sydney, St Leonards, NSW, Australia.,Sydney Nursing School, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, St Leonards, NSW, Australia
| | - Rosalind Elliott
- Research & Practice Development Unit, Royal North Shore Hospital, Nursing and Midwifery Directorate, St Leonards, NSW, Australia
| | - Kate Curtis
- Sydney Nursing School, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Emergency Services, ISLHD, Woollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Joy Mei
- Aged Service in Emergency Team (ASET), Northern Sydney Local Health District, Hornsby Hospital, Hornsby, NSW, Australia
| | - Lesley Fitzpatrick
- Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, St Leonards, NSW, Australia.,Emergency Department, Northern Sydney Local Health District, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW, Australia
| | - Rachel Groth
- Aged Service in Emergency Team (ASET), Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW, Australia
| | - Sandra Murphy
- Research & Practice Development Unit, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW, Australia
| | - Keryn Jones
- Emergency Department, South East Local Health District, St George Hospital, Kogarah, NSW, Australia
| | - Catherine Hofman
- Aged Service in Emergency Team (ASET), Emergency Department, South East Sydney Local Health District, St George Hospital, Kogarah, NSW, Australia
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23
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Benjenk I, DuGoff EH, Jacobsohn GC, Cayenne N, Jones CMC, Caprio TV, Cushman JT, Green RK, Kind AJH, Lohmeier M, Mi R, Shah MN. Predictors of Older Adult Adherence With Emergency Department Discharge Instructions. Acad Emerg Med 2021; 28:215-225. [PMID: 32767696 DOI: 10.1111/acem.14105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Older adults discharged from the emergency department (ED) are at high risk for adverse outcomes. Adherence to ED discharge instructions is necessary to reduce those risks. The objective of this study is to determine the individual-level factors associated with adherence with ED discharge instructions among older adult ED outpatients. METHODS We performed a secondary analysis of data from the control group of a randomized controlled trial testing a care transitions intervention among older adults (age ≥ 60 years) discharged home from the ED in two states. Taking data from patient surveys and chart reviews, we used multivariable logistic regression to identify patient characteristics associated with adherence to printed discharge instructions. Outcomes were patient-reported medication adherence, provider follow-up visit adherence, and knowledge of "red flags" (signs of worsening health requiring further medical attention). RESULTS A total 824 patients were potentially eligible, and 699 had data in at least one pillar. A total of 35% adhered to medication instructions, 76% adhered to follow-up instructions, and 35% recalled at least one red flag. In the multivariate analysis, no factors were significantly associated with failure to adhere to medications. Participants with poor health status (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.55, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.31 to 0.98) were less likely to adhere to follow-up instructions. Participants who were older (AORs trended downward as age category increased) or depressed (AOR = 0.39, 95% CI = 0.17 to 0.85) or had one or more functional limitations (AOR = 0.62, 95% CI = 0.41 to 0.94) were less likely to recall red flags. CONCLUSION Older adults discharged home from the ED have mixed rates of adherence to discharge instructions. Although it is thought that some subgroups may be higher risk than others, given the opportunity to improve ED-to-home transitions, EDs and health systems should consider providing additional care transition support to all older adults discharged home from the ED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivy Benjenk
- From the Department of Health Policy and Management School of Public Health University of Maryland College Park MDUSA
| | - Eva H. DuGoff
- From the Department of Health Policy and Management School of Public Health University of Maryland College Park MDUSA
- the Department of Population Health Sciences School of Medicine and Public HealthUniversity of Wisconsin MadisonWIUSA
- the Berkeley Research Group Washington DCUSA
| | - Gwen C. Jacobsohn
- and the Department of Emergency Medicine School of Medicine and Public Health University of Wisconsin Madison WIUSA
| | - Nia Cayenne
- and the Department of Emergency Medicine School of Medicine and Public Health University of Wisconsin Madison WIUSA
| | - Courtney M. C. Jones
- the Department of Emergency MedicineUniversity of Rochester Medical Center RochesterNYUSA
| | - Thomas V. Caprio
- the Department of Public Health SciencesUniversity of Rochester Medical Center RochesterNYUSA
- the Department of Medicine Division of Geriatrics University of Rochester Medical Center Rochester NYUSA
| | - Jeremy T. Cushman
- the Department of Emergency MedicineUniversity of Rochester Medical Center RochesterNYUSA
- the Department of Public Health SciencesUniversity of Rochester Medical Center RochesterNYUSA
| | - Rebecca K. Green
- and the Department of Emergency Medicine School of Medicine and Public Health University of Wisconsin Madison WIUSA
| | - Amy J. H. Kind
- the Division of Geriatrics and Gerontology Department of Medicine School of Medicine and Public Health University of Wisconsin Madison WIUSA
- and the William S. Middleton Veterans Affairs Geriatrics Research, Education, and Clinical Center Madison WIUSA
| | - Michael Lohmeier
- and the Department of Emergency Medicine School of Medicine and Public Health University of Wisconsin Madison WIUSA
| | - Ranran Mi
- and the Department of Emergency Medicine School of Medicine and Public Health University of Wisconsin Madison WIUSA
| | - Manish N. Shah
- the Department of Population Health Sciences School of Medicine and Public HealthUniversity of Wisconsin MadisonWIUSA
- and the Department of Emergency Medicine School of Medicine and Public Health University of Wisconsin Madison WIUSA
- the Division of Geriatrics and Gerontology Department of Medicine School of Medicine and Public Health University of Wisconsin Madison WIUSA
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Siddiqui TG, Cheng S, Mellingsæter M, Grambaite R, Gulbrandsen P, Lundqvist C, Gerwing J. "What should I do when I get home?" treatment plan discussion at discharge between specialist physicians and older in-patients: mixed method study. BMC Health Serv Res 2020; 20:1002. [PMID: 33143713 PMCID: PMC7607876 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-020-05860-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background During discharge from hospital, older patients and physicians discuss the plan for managing patients’ health at home. If not followed at home, it can result in poor medication management, readmissions, or other adverse events. Comorbidities, polypharmacy and cognitive impairment may create challenges for older patients. We assessed discharge conversations between older in-patients and physicians for treatment plan activities and medication information, with emphasis on the role of cognitive function in the ongoing conversation. Methods We collected 11 videos of discharge consultations, medication lists, and self-reported demographic information from hospitalised patients ≥65 years at the Geriatric department in a general hospital. Mini Mental State Examination score < 25 was classified as low cognitive function. We used microanalysis of face-to-face dialogue to identify and characterise sequences of interaction focused on and distinguishing the treatment plan activities discussed. In addition to descriptive statistics, we used a paired-sample t-test and Mann-Whitney U test for non-parametric data. Results Patients’ median age was 85 (range: 71–90);7 were females and 4 males. Median of 17 (range: 7 to 23) treatment plan activities were discussed. The proportions of the activities, grouped from a patient perspective, were: 0.40 my medications, 0.21 something the hospital will do for me, 0.18 someone I visit away from home, 0.12 daily routine and 0.09 someone coming to my home. Patients spoke less (mean 190.9 words, SD 133.9) during treatment plan activities compared to other topics (mean 759 words, SD 480.4), (p = .001). Patients used on average 9.2 (SD 3.1) medications; during the conversations, an average of 4.5 (SD 3.3) were discussed, and side effects discussed on average 1.2 (SD 2.1) times. During treatment plan discussions, patients with lower cognitive function were less responsive and spoke less (mean 116.5 words, SD 40.9), compared to patients with normal cognition (mean 233.4 words, SD 152.4), (p = .089). Conclusion Physicians and geriatric patients discuss many activities during discharge conversations, mostly focusing on medication use without stating side effects. Cognitive function might play a role in how older patients respond. These results may be useful for an intervention to improve communication between physicians and older hospitalised patients. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12913-020-05860-9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahreem Ghazal Siddiqui
- Health Services Research Unit, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway. .,Institute of Clinical Medicine, Campus Ahus, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Socheat Cheng
- Health Services Research Unit, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, Campus Ahus, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Ramune Grambaite
- Health Services Research Unit, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway.,Department of Psychology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Pål Gulbrandsen
- Health Services Research Unit, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, Campus Ahus, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Christofer Lundqvist
- Health Services Research Unit, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, Campus Ahus, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Jennifer Gerwing
- Health Services Research Unit, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
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25
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Mahajan M, Hogewoning JA, Zewald JJA, Kerkmeer M, Feitsma M, van Rijssel DA. The impact of teach-back on patient recall and understanding of discharge information in the emergency department: the Emergency Teach-Back (EM-TeBa) study. Int J Emerg Med 2020; 13:49. [PMID: 32972361 PMCID: PMC7513274 DOI: 10.1186/s12245-020-00306-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Previous research has demonstrated that patients leaving the emergency department (ED) have poor recall and understanding of their discharge information. The teach-back method is an easy technique that can be used to check, and if necessary correct, inaccurate recall. In our study, we aimed to determine the direct and short-term impact of teach-back as well as feasibility for routine use in the ED. Methods A prospective cohort study in an urban, non-academic ED was performed which included adult patients who were discharged from the ED with a new medical problem. The control group with the standard discharge was compared to the intervention group using the teach-back method. Recall and comprehension scores were assessed immediately after discharge and 2–4 days afterward by phone, using four standardized questions concerning their diagnosis, treatment, follow-up care, and return precautions. Results Four hundred eighty-three patients were included in the study, 239 in the control group, and 244 in the intervention group. Patients receiving teach-back had higher scores on all domains immediately after discharge and on three domains after 2–4 days (6.3% versus 4.5%). After teach-back, the proportion of patients that left the ED with a comprehension deficit declined from 49 to 11.9%. Deficits were most common for return precautions in both groups (41.3% versus 8.1%). Teach-back conversation took 1:39 min, versus an average of 3:11 min for a regular discharge interview. Conclusion Teach-back is an efficient and non-time-consuming method to improve patients’ immediate and short-term recall and comprehension of discharge information in the ED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mandhkani Mahajan
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Reinier de Graaf Hospital, P.O. Box 5011, 2600, GA, Delft, The Netherlands.
| | - Janine Alida Hogewoning
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Reinier de Graaf Hospital, P.O. Box 5011, 2600, GA, Delft, The Netherlands
| | | | - Margreet Kerkmeer
- Science Department, Reinier de Graaf Hospital, Reinier Academy, P.O. Box 5011, 2600, GA, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Mathilde Feitsma
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Reinier de Graaf Hospital, P.O. Box 5011, 2600, GA, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Daphne Annika van Rijssel
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Reinier de Graaf Hospital, P.O. Box 5011, 2600, GA, Delft, The Netherlands
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26
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Dermody S, Hughes M, Smith V. The Effectiveness of Pictorial Discharge Advice Versus Standard Advice Following Discharge From the Emergency Department: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Emerg Nurs 2020; 47:66-75.e1. [PMID: 32962841 DOI: 10.1016/j.jen.2020.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Failure to provide adequate discharge advice to patients on leaving the emergency department can lead to poor understanding of and noncompliance with discharge instructions and consequently postdischarge complications or hospital readmissions. The use of pictographs to complement discharge advice has the potential to enhance patient recall and comprehension. The purpose of this paper was to determine the effectiveness of pictorial discharge advice compared with standard discharge advice in the emergency department. METHODS A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted. CINAHL, MEDLINE, ASSIA, and EMBASE were searched from inception to March 1, 2020, combining terms related to the emergency room, pictogram, and randomized trials as appropriate. Randomized trials reporting on the use of pictorial discharge advice in the emergency department were eligible for inclusion. Outcome measures were comprehension, compliance with advice, satisfaction with advice and the ED visit, and reattendance rates. The Cochrane risk of bias tool was used to assess bias in the included studies. RESULTS Four studies were identified as eligible and included in the review. Pictorial discharge advice improved comprehension, compliance, and patient satisfaction with the advice, but not satisfaction with the ED visit when compared with standard discharge advice. None of the included studies measured reattendance rates. DISCUSSION The results of this systematic review support the use of pictorial discharge advice. However, few studies exist; none had a low risk of bias overall, and 3 were published over 12 years ago. This finding highlights a need for further research to inform evidence-based best practices on optimal methods for providing quality discharge advice in the emergency department.
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27
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The geriatric emergency literature 2019. Am J Emerg Med 2020; 38:1834-1840. [PMID: 32739854 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2020.05.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Revised: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Geriatric Emergency Medicine is an important frontier for study and innovation by emergency practitioners. The rapid growth of this patient population combined with complex medical and social needs has prompted research ranging from which tests and screening tools are most effective for geriatric evaluation to how we can safely manage pain in the elderly or address goals of care in the Emergency Department. This review summarizes emergency medicine articles focused on the older patient population published in 2019, which the authors consider critical to the practice of geriatric emergency medicine.
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28
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Doyle SK, Rippey JC, Jacques A, Rea AM, Kaiser BN, Miller SM, Anstey MHR. Effect of personalised, mobile‐accessible discharge instructions for patients leaving the emergency department: A randomised controlled trial. Emerg Med Australas 2020; 32:967-973. [DOI: 10.1111/1742-6723.13516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Revised: 03/28/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - James C Rippey
- Emergency Department Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital Perth Western Australia Australia
| | - Angela Jacques
- Department of Research Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital Perth Western Australia Australia
- Institute for Health Research The University of Notre Dame Fremantle Western Australia Australia
| | - Alethea M Rea
- Centre for Applied Statistics The University of Western Australia Perth Western Australia Australia
| | - Bronwyn N Kaiser
- Emergency Department Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital Perth Western Australia Australia
| | - Suzanne M Miller
- Emergency Department, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital Sydney New South Wales Australia
- Emergency Department, Ryde Hospital Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Matthew HR Anstey
- Intensive Care Unit Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital Perth Western Australia Australia
- School of Medicine, The University of Western Australia Perth Western Australia Australia
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29
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Hoek AE, Anker SC, van Beeck EF, Burdorf A, Rood PP, Haagsma JA. Patient Discharge Instructions in the Emergency Department and Their Effects on Comprehension and Recall of Discharge Instructions: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Ann Emerg Med 2020; 75:435-444. [DOI: 10.1016/j.annemergmed.2019.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2019] [Revised: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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30
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Stevens L, Fry M, Jacques M, Barnes A. Perceptions and experience of emergency discharge as reported by nurses and medical officers. Australas Emerg Care 2020; 23:55-61. [DOI: 10.1016/j.auec.2019.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Revised: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 12/12/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Glick AF, Farkas JS, Mendelsohn AL, Fierman AH, Tomopoulos S, Rosenberg RE, Dreyer BP, Melgar J, Varriano J, Yin HS. Discharge Instruction Comprehension and Adherence Errors: Interrelationship Between Plan Complexity and Parent Health Literacy. J Pediatr 2019; 214:193-200.e3. [PMID: 31253406 PMCID: PMC10866623 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2019.04.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2019] [Revised: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 04/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine associations between parent health literacy, discharge plan complexity, and parent comprehension of and adherence to inpatient discharge instructions. STUDY DESIGN This was a prospective cohort study of English/Spanish-speaking parents (n = 165) of children ≤12 years discharged on ≥1 daily medication from an urban, public hospital. Outcome variables were parent comprehension (survey) of and adherence (survey, in-person dosing assessment, chart review) to discharge instructions. Predictor variables included low parent health literacy (Newest Vital Sign score 0-3) and plan complexity. Generalized estimating equations were used to account for the assessment of multiple types of comprehension and adherence errors for each subject, adjusting for ethnicity, language, child age, length of stay, and chronic disease status. Similar analyses were performed to assess for mediation and moderation. RESULTS Error rates were highest for comprehension of medication side effects (50%), adherence to medication dose (34%), and return precaution (78%) instructions. Comprehension errors were associated with adherence errors (aOR, 8.7; 95% CI, 5.9-12.9). Discharge plan complexity was associated with comprehension (aOR, 7.0; 95% CI, 5.4-9.1) and adherence (aOR, 5.5; 95% CI, 4.0-7.6) errors. Low health literacy was indirectly associated with adherence errors through comprehension errors. The association between plan complexity and comprehension errors was greater in parents with low (aOR, 8.3; 95% CI, 6.2-11.2) compared with adequate (aOR, 3.8; 95% CI, 2.2-6.5) health literacy (interaction term P = .004). CONCLUSIONS Parent health literacy and discharge plan complexity play key roles in comprehension and adherence errors. Future work will focus on the development of health literacy-informed interventions to promote discharge plan comprehension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander F Glick
- New York University School of Medicine/NYU Langone Health, New York, NY; Bellevue Hospital Center, New York, NY.
| | - Jonathan S Farkas
- New York University School of Medicine/NYU Langone Health, New York, NY; Bellevue Hospital Center, New York, NY
| | - Alan L Mendelsohn
- New York University School of Medicine/NYU Langone Health, New York, NY; Bellevue Hospital Center, New York, NY
| | - Arthur H Fierman
- New York University School of Medicine/NYU Langone Health, New York, NY; Bellevue Hospital Center, New York, NY
| | - Suzy Tomopoulos
- New York University School of Medicine/NYU Langone Health, New York, NY; Bellevue Hospital Center, New York, NY
| | - Rebecca E Rosenberg
- New York University School of Medicine/NYU Langone Health, New York, NY; Bellevue Hospital Center, New York, NY
| | - Benard P Dreyer
- New York University School of Medicine/NYU Langone Health, New York, NY; Bellevue Hospital Center, New York, NY
| | - Jennifer Melgar
- New York University School of Medicine/NYU Langone Health, New York, NY; Bellevue Hospital Center, New York, NY
| | - John Varriano
- New York University School of Medicine/NYU Langone Health, New York, NY; Bellevue Hospital Center, New York, NY
| | - H Shonna Yin
- New York University School of Medicine/NYU Langone Health, New York, NY; Bellevue Hospital Center, New York, NY
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32
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Awareness of diagnosis and follow up care after discharge from the Emergency Department. Australas Emerg Care 2019; 22:221-226. [PMID: 31624010 DOI: 10.1016/j.auec.2019.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2019] [Revised: 08/26/2019] [Accepted: 08/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients currently receive discharge summaries including investigation results, medical assessment and follow up requirements with health professionals on discharge from the emergency department (ED). This study aimed to evaluate if a simplified discharge information card in addition to current care improved patients' awareness of their discharge diagnosis and requirements for follow-up appointment. METHODS A prospective pre-post design interventional study was conducted. The pre-intervention phase collected data from patients who did not receive the discharge card. The post-intervention phase occurred after implementing the discharge card. Participants underwent brief interviews to assess awareness of diagnosis and follow-up appointment requirements after discharge. Responses were compared to the plan in the medical notes and concordance determined. RESULTS There were 112 patients in the pre-intervention group and 117 in the post-intervention group. Awareness of discharge diagnosis improved from 73.2% (95% CI: 64.3-80.5) of pre-interventions participants to 89.7% (95% CI: 82.9-94.0) for participants receiving the discharge card (p<0.001; NNT 6.1 patients). Statistically significant improvements were observed regarding knowledge of follow-up destination and timing. CONCLUSION A short discharge information card improved awareness of discharge diagnoses and follow-up requirements. Such interventions that empower patients with knowledge about their health, should be considered prior to discharge from EDs.
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Adherence of older emergency department patients to community-based specialized geriatric services. CAN J EMERG MED 2019; 21:659-666. [DOI: 10.1017/cem.2019.376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACTObjectivesOur objective was to determine emergency department (ED) patient adherence to outpatient specialized geriatric services (SGS) following ED evaluation by the geriatric emergency management (GEM) nurse, and identify barriers and facilitators to attendance.MethodsWe conducted a prospective cohort study at two academic EDs between July and December 2016, enrolling a convenience sample of patients ≥ 65 years, seen by a GEM nurse, referred to outpatient SGS, and consented to study participation. We completed a chart review and a structured telephone follow-up at 6 weeks. Descriptive statistics were used.ResultsWe enrolled 103/285 eligible patients (86 eligible but not enrolled, 86 declined specialized geriatric referrals, and 10 declined study participation). Patients were mean age of 83.1 years, 59.2% female, and 73.2% cognitively impaired. Reasons for referral included mobility (86.4%), cognition (56.3%), pain (38.8%), mood (35.0%), medications (33.0%), and nutrition (31.1%). Referrals were to Geriatric Day Hospital (GDH) programs (50.5%), geriatric outreach (26.2%), falls clinic (12.6%), and geriatric psychiatry (8.7%). Adherence with follow-up was 59.2%. Barriers to attendance included patient did not feel SGS were needed (52.1%), inability to recall GEM consultation (53.4%), and dependence on family for transportation (72.6%). Home-based assessments had the highest adherence (81.5%).ConclusionAdherence of older ED patients referred by the GEM team to SGS is suboptimal, and a large proportion of patients decline these referrals in the ED. Future work should examine the efficacy of home-based assessments in a larger confirmatory setting and focus on interventions to increase referral acceptance and address barriers to attendance.
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Stevens L, Fry M, Browne M, Barnes A. Fast track patients’ satisfaction, compliance and confidence with emergency department discharge planning. Australas Emerg Care 2019; 22:87-91. [DOI: 10.1016/j.auec.2019.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2018] [Accepted: 01/21/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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35
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Cabilan CJ, Boyde M, Currey E. The effectiveness of pharmacist- led discharge medication counselling in the emergency department (ExPLAIN): A pilot quasi-experimental study. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2019; 102:1157-1163. [PMID: 30712945 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2019.01.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2018] [Revised: 01/22/2019] [Accepted: 01/25/2019] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effectiveness of pharmacist-led discharge medication counselling using a structured, multimodal educational strategy with teach-back (intervention) against standard care. METHODS This was a quasi-experimental study in a public, metropolitan ED. Participants discharged home with new medications were allocated to receive the intervention or standard care using convenience sampling. Participant characteristics (i.e. age, sex, socio-economic status, medications) and health literacy were collected. The outcomes measured were satisfaction with information, ED re-presentation and length of stay. RESULTS There were 51 participants: 14 received intervention, 37 had standard care. Overall, 12% had inadequate health literacy. Group characteristics and health literacy were similar. Participants who received the intervention were significantly reported higher satisfaction with information about their new medications compared to standard care (p = 0.009). Specifically, the intervention was associated with a 98% increase in satisfaction with information relating to side-effects. There were no differences in re-presentation and length of stay. CONCLUSION Pharmacist-led discharge medication counselling incorporating a structured, multimodal educational strategy and teach-back was effective in improving patient satisfaction with medication information in the ED. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS A similar intervention could be trialled in other EDs, but outcomes other beyond satisfaction should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- C J Cabilan
- Emergency Department, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Australia.
| | - Mary Boyde
- Cardiology/Nursing Practice Development Unit, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Australia; School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Currey
- Emergency Department, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Australia; Pharmacy Department, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
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Schultz H, Schultz Larsen T, Möller S, Qvist N. The Effect of Patient-Controlled Oral Analgesia for Acute Abdominal Pain after Discharge. Pain Manag Nurs 2019; 20:352-357. [PMID: 31103520 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmn.2019.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2018] [Revised: 02/02/2019] [Accepted: 02/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND During hospitalization, patients who were admitted with acute abdominal pain must be prepared to care for themselves at home after discharge to continue established treatment, promote recovery, and avoid readmission. AIMS Our aim was to investigate the quality of pain management after discharge, when patient-controlled oral analgesia was compared with standard care for patients admitted to hospital with acute abdominal pain. The primary outcome measures were pain intensity and patient perception of care. The secondary outcome measures were pain interference with activity, affective experiences, side effects, and use of analgesics. DESIGN A questionnaire study measuring the effect of an intervention on patient-controlled oral analgesics. SETTINGS An emergency department and a surgical department in Denmark. PARTICIPANTS Patients admitted to hospital with acute abdominal pain. METHODS A pre- and postintervention study was conducted in an emergency department and a surgical department with three subunits. Data were collected using a Danish modified Revised American Pain Society Patient Outcome Questionnaire with five subscales (scale 0-10) completed in weeks 1 and 4 after discharge. RESULTS In total, 117 patients were included. The median scores at week 1 and week 4 in the control and intervention groups were, respectively, 2/1 and 1/0 on the pain subscale (p = .11/.16), 3/0 and 3/0 on the activity subscale (p = .19/.80), 1/0 and 0/0 on the emotional subscale (p = .02/.72), 1/0 and 1/0 on the side effect subscale (p = .95/.99), and 8/5 and 7/7 on the patient perception subscale (p = .35/.49). There was no significant difference in the use of analgesics at week 1. CONCLUSIONS Patient-controlled oral analgesia during the hospital stay did not improve the quality of pain management after discharge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Schultz
- Surgical Department, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark; Institute of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark; OPEN (Odense Patient Data Explorative Network), Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark.
| | | | - Sören Möller
- Institute of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark; OPEN (Odense Patient Data Explorative Network), Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Niels Qvist
- Surgical Department, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark; Institute of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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Southerland LT, Pearson S, Hullick C, Carpenter CR, Arendts G. Safe to send home? Discharge risk assessment in the emergency department. Emerg Med Australas 2019; 31:266-270. [DOI: 10.1111/1742-6723.13250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lauren T Southerland
- Department of Emergency MedicineThe Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center Columbus Ohio USA
| | - Scott Pearson
- Department of Emergency MedicineChristchurch Hospital Christchurch New Zealand
| | - Carolyn Hullick
- Faculty of HealthThe University of Newcastle Newcastle New South Wales Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute Newcastle New South Wales Australia
| | | | - Glenn Arendts
- School of MedicineThe University of Western Australia Perth Western Australia Australia
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Factors for Self-Managing Care Following Older Adults’ Discharge from the Emergency Department: A Qualitative Study. Can J Aging 2018; 38:76-89. [DOI: 10.1017/s071498081800034x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
RÉSUMÉCette étude avait pour but d’identifier les facteurs qui influent sur la capacité des personnes âgées à prendre en charge leur santé après une consultation au service des urgences (SU). Les questionnaires de l’enquête (n = 380) ont été remplis en SU par des personnes âgées et leurs aidants et visaient à évaluer leur perception de la compréhension de l’information qui leur était fournie. Des entrevues (n = 51) ont été réalisées avec un sous-échantillon de participants au cours des quatre semaines suivant leur consultation au SU et ont examiné les facteurs ayant une incidence sur l’autogestion des problèmes de santé. La perception de la compréhension de l’information reçue en SU (« oui, certainement ») était meilleure lors de la consultation au SU (91 %) que lors du suivi (71 %), lorsque 20 % des participants ne comprenaient pas ou n’étaient pas certains qu’ils avaient compris ce qui leur avait été communiqué en SU. Les patients ont rapporté que l’autogestion de leurs problèmes de santé était influencée par: la communication avec le personnel du SU, la compréhension des attentes suivant le congé de l’hôpital, l’état de santé, la disponibilité des aidants et divers facteurs externes. De plus, les soignants ont aussi mentionné l’appui aux soignants et la résistance des patients aux recommandations. L’utilisation de stratégies adaptées aux aînés en SU (p. ex. recommandations écrites, confirmation de la compréhension des recommandations), particulièrement celles liées à l’identification des personnes à risque et de celles nécessitant davantage de soutiens transitoires ou un meilleur accès ou intégration aux ressources disponibles dans la communauté amélioreraient l’autogestion des problèmes de santé suivant les consultations en SU.
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Systems-Based Practice to Improve Care Within and Beyond the Emergency Department. Clin Geriatr Med 2018; 34:399-413. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cger.2018.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Nielsen LM, Maribo T, Kirkegaard H, Petersen KS, Lisby M, Oestergaard LG. Effectiveness of the "Elderly Activity Performance Intervention" on elderly patients' discharge from a short-stay unit at the emergency department: a quasi-experimental trial. Clin Interv Aging 2018; 13:737-747. [PMID: 29731615 PMCID: PMC5927350 DOI: 10.2147/cia.s162623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To examine the effectiveness of the Elderly Activity Performance Intervention on reducing the risk of readmission in elderly patients discharged from a short-stay unit at the emergency department. Patients and methods The study was conducted as a nonrandomized, quasi-experimental trial. Three hundred and seventy-five elderly patients were included and allocated to the Elderly Activity Performance Intervention (n=144) or usual practice (n=231). The intervention consisted of 1) assessment of the patients’ performance of daily activities, 2) referral to further rehabilitation, and 3) follow-up visit the day after discharge. Primary outcome was readmission (yes/no) within 26 weeks. The study was registered in ClinicalTrial.gov (NCT02078466). Results No between-group differences were found in readmission. Overall, 44% of the patients in the intervention group and 42% in the usual practice group were readmitted within 26 weeks (risk difference=0.02, 95% CI: [−0.08; 0.12] and risk ratio=1.05, 95% CI: [0.83; 1.33]). No between-group differences were found in any of the secondary outcomes. Conclusion The Elderly Activity Performance Intervention showed no effectiveness in reducing the risk of readmission in elderly patients discharged from a short-stay unit at the emergency department. The study revealed that 60% of the elderly patients had a need for further rehabilitation after discharge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise Moeldrup Nielsen
- Department of Occupational Therapy, VIA University College.,Department of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Aarhus University Hospital
| | - Thomas Maribo
- Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, DEFACTUM
| | - Hans Kirkegaard
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Research Centre for Emergency Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus
| | | | - Marianne Lisby
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Research Centre for Emergency Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus
| | - Lisa Gregersen Oestergaard
- Department of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Aarhus University Hospital.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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Patient understanding of discharge instructions in the emergency department: do different patients need different approaches? Int J Emerg Med 2018; 11:5. [PMID: 29423767 PMCID: PMC5805670 DOI: 10.1186/s12245-018-0164-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2017] [Accepted: 01/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Previous studies have demonstrated that patients have poor understanding of the discharge instructions provided from the emergency department (ED). The aims of this study are to determine if patient factors, such as income and level of education, correlate with patient understanding of discharge instructions and to explore if different patient populations prefer different resources for receiving discharge instructions. Methods We conducted live observations of physicians providing discharge instructions in the ED to 100 patients followed by a patient survey to determine their understanding in four domains (diagnosis, treatment plan, follow-up instructions, and return to ED (RTED) instructions) and collect patient demographics. We enrolled patients over the age of 18 being discharged home. We excluded non-English- or French-speaking patients and those with significant psychiatric history or cognitive impairment. We performed a two-way ANOVA analysis of patient factors and patient understanding. Results We found that patients had poor understanding of discharge instructions, ranging from 24.0% having poor understanding of their follow-up plan to 64.0% for RTED instructions. Almost half (42%) of patients did not receive complete discharge instructions. Lower income was correlated with a significant decrease in patient understanding of discharge diagnosis (p = 0.01) and RTED instructions (p = 0.04). Patients who did not complete high school trended towards lower levels of understanding of their diagnosis and treatment plan (p = 0.06). Lower income patients had a preference for receiving a follow-up phone call by a nurse, while higher income patients preferred online resources. Conclusions Lower income patients and those who have not completed high school are at a higher risk of poor understanding discharge instructions. As new technological solutions emerge to aid patient understanding of discharge instructions, our study suggests they may not aid those who are at the highest risk of failing to understand their instructions. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12245-018-0164-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Biese KJ, Busby-Whitehead J, Cai J, Stearns SC, Roberts E, Mihas P, Emmett D, Zhou Q, Farmer F, Kizer JS. Telephone Follow-Up for Older Adults Discharged to Home from the Emergency Department: A Pragmatic Randomized Controlled Trial. J Am Geriatr Soc 2017; 66:452-458. [DOI: 10.1111/jgs.15142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin J. Biese
- Department of Emergency Medicine; University of North Carolina; Chapel Hill North Carolina
- Center for Aging and Health; Department of Medicine; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; Chapel Hill North Carolina
| | - Jan Busby-Whitehead
- Center for Aging and Health; Department of Medicine; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; Chapel Hill North Carolina
| | - Jianwen Cai
- Department of Biostatistics; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; Chapel Hill North Carolina
| | - Sally C. Stearns
- Department of Health Policy and Management; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; Chapel Hill North Carolina
| | - Ellen Roberts
- Center for Aging and Health; Department of Medicine; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; Chapel Hill North Carolina
| | - Paul Mihas
- Howard W. Odum Institute for Research in Social Science; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; Chapel Hill North Carolina
| | - Doug Emmett
- Center for Aging and Health; Department of Medicine; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; Chapel Hill North Carolina
| | - Qingning Zhou
- Department of Biostatistics; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; Chapel Hill North Carolina
| | - Franklin Farmer
- Center for Aging and Health; Department of Medicine; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; Chapel Hill North Carolina
| | - John S. Kizer
- Center for Aging and Health; Department of Medicine; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; Chapel Hill North Carolina
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Glick AF, Farkas JS, Nicholson J, Dreyer BP, Fears M, Bandera C, Stolper T, Gerber N, Yin HS. Parental Management of Discharge Instructions: A Systematic Review. Pediatrics 2017; 140:e20164165. [PMID: 28739657 PMCID: PMC5527669 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2016-4165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Parents often manage complex instructions when their children are discharged from the inpatient setting or emergency department (ED); misunderstanding instructions can put children at risk for adverse outcomes. Parents' ability to manage discharge instructions has not been examined before in a systematic review. OBJECTIVE To perform a systematic review of the literature related to parental management (knowledge and execution) of inpatient and ED discharge instructions. DATA SOURCES We consulted PubMed/Medline, Embase, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and Cochrane CENTRAL (from database inception to January 1, 2017). STUDY SELECTION We selected experimental or observational studies in the inpatient or ED settings in which parental knowledge or execution of discharge instructions were evaluated. DATA EXTRACTION Two authors independently screened potential studies for inclusion and extracted data from eligible articles by using a structured form. RESULTS Sixty-four studies met inclusion criteria; most (n = 48) were ED studies. Medication dosing and adherence errors were common; knowledge of medication side effects was understudied (n = 1). Parents frequently missed follow-up appointments and misunderstood return precaution instructions. Few researchers conducted studies that assessed management of instructions related to diagnosis (n = 3), restrictions (n = 2), or equipment (n = 1). Complex discharge plans (eg, multiple medicines or appointments), limited English proficiency, and public or no insurance were associated with errors. Few researchers conducted studies that evaluated the role of parent health literacy (ED, n = 5; inpatient, n = 0). LIMITATIONS The studies were primarily observational in nature. CONCLUSIONS Parents frequently make errors related to knowledge and execution of inpatient and ED discharge instructions. Researchers in the future should assess parental management of instructions for domains that are less well studied and focus on the design of interventions to improve discharge plan management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander F Glick
- New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York; and
- Bellevue Hospital Center, New York, New York
| | - Jonathan S Farkas
- New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York; and
- Bellevue Hospital Center, New York, New York
| | | | - Benard P Dreyer
- New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York; and
- Bellevue Hospital Center, New York, New York
| | - Melissa Fears
- New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York; and
- Bellevue Hospital Center, New York, New York
| | - Christopher Bandera
- New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York; and
- Bellevue Hospital Center, New York, New York
| | - Tanya Stolper
- New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York; and
- Bellevue Hospital Center, New York, New York
| | - Nicole Gerber
- New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York; and
- Bellevue Hospital Center, New York, New York
| | - H Shonna Yin
- New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York; and
- Bellevue Hospital Center, New York, New York
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An Intervention to Improve Caregiver Adherence to Oral Rehydration Therapy. Pediatr Qual Saf 2017; 2:e020. [PMID: 30229158 PMCID: PMC6132460 DOI: 10.1097/pq9.0000000000000020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2016] [Accepted: 02/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text. Objective: To improve oral rehydration therapy (ORT) after discharge for children presenting to the emergency department (ED) with acute gastroenteritis (AGE). Methods: We designed and implemented a quality improvement initiative to improve caregiver adherence to ORT in children 6 months to 21 years old with AGE. The intervention consisted of ORT “kits” with rehydration supplies and caregiver instructions. In the preintervention period we monitored patient/caregiver adherence to ORT recommendations and additionally monitored ORT kit and educational material distribution during the intervention phase via a caregiver survey after discharge. We utilized statistical process control methodology to assess responses to the intervention. As a balancing measure, we monitored the ED length of stay for patients with AGE. Results: Over the study period from November 2013 to April 2015, we included 174 encounters during the preintervention period and 256 encounters during the intervention period. More than 9 of 10 children received ORT kits in the intervention period. Self-reported adherence to ORT between the 2 time periods remained constant. The ED length of stay did not change between the preintervention and intervention period. Conclusions: Despite successful distribution of novel ORT materials and education for caregivers of children with AGE in a pediatric ED, caregiver self-reported adherence to ORT postdischarge visit was unchanged. An unexpected high baseline adherence to ORT practices may have limited improvement.
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Ackermann S, Ghanim L, Heierle A, Hertwig R, Langewitz W, Mata R, Bingisser R. Information structuring improves recall of emergency discharge information: a randomized clinical trial. PSYCHOL HEALTH MED 2016; 22:646-662. [PMID: 27309340 DOI: 10.1080/13548506.2016.1198816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Lowthian J, Straney LD, Brand CA, Barker AL, Smit PDV, Newnham H, Hunter P, Smith C, Cameron PA. Unplanned early return to the emergency department by older patients: the Safe Elderly Emergency Department Discharge (SEED) project. Age Ageing 2016; 45:255-61. [PMID: 26764254 DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afv198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2015] [Accepted: 12/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND an emergency department (ED) visit is a sentinel event for an older person, with increased likelihood of adverse outcomes post-discharge including early re-presentation. OBJECTIVES to determine factors associated with early re-presentation. METHODS prospective cohort study conducted in the ED of a large acute Melbourne tertiary hospital. Community-dwelling patients ≥65 years were interviewed including comprehensive assessment of cognitive and functional status, and mood. Logistic regression was used to identify risk factors for return within 30 days. RESULTS nine hundred and fifty-nine patients, median age 77 years, were recruited. One hundred and forty patients (14.6%) re-presented within 30 days, including 22 patients (2.3%) on ≥2 occasions and 75 patients (7.8%) within 7 days. Risk factors for re-presentation included depressive symptoms, cognitive impairment, co-morbidity, triaged as less urgent (ATS 4) and attendance in the previous 12 months, with a decline in risk after 85 years of age. Logistic regression identified chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (OR 1.78, 95% CI 1.02-3.11), moderate cognitive impairment (OR 2.07, 95% CI 1.09-3.90), previous ED visit (OR 2.11, 95% CI 1.43-3.12) and ATS 4 (OR 2.34, 95% CI 1.10-4.99) as independent risk factors for re-presentation. Age ≥85 years was associated with reduced risk (OR 0.81, 95% CI 0.70-0.93). CONCLUSION older discharged patients had a high rate of early re-presentation. Previously identified risk factors-increased age, living alone, functional dependence and polypharmacy-were not associated with early return in this study. It is not clear whether these inconsistencies represent a change in patient case-mix or strategies implemented to reduce re-attendance. This remains an important area for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judy Lowthian
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lahn D Straney
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Caroline A Brand
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Anna L Barker
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - P de Villiers Smit
- Emergency & Trauma Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Harvey Newnham
- General Medicine, Alfred Health Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter Hunter
- Subacute and Medical Services Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Cathie Smith
- Emergency & Trauma Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter A Cameron
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia Emergency & Trauma Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Šteinmiller J, Routasalo P, Suominen T. Older people in the emergency department: a literature review. Int J Older People Nurs 2015; 10:284-305. [PMID: 26183883 DOI: 10.1111/opn.12090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2013] [Accepted: 06/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emergency departments (EDs) play a unique role in healthcare systems throughout the world by providing acute interventions for older patients with acute/emergency and multiple health problems. The aim of this review was to identify studies that focused on older patients admitted to EDs and to determine the reasons for the visits. DESIGN AND METHODS The literature review was based on a comprehensive search of electronic databases. Inclusion criteria were original research written in English; published 2002-2012; focused on older people; reasons for ED visit; and factors that affect the discharge process and those associated with a repeat ED visit. Other literature reviews and studies unrelated to the ED context, and studies examining patients aged ≥65 years, were excluded. Content analysis was performed. Twenty-five studies were identified and critically evaluated. RESULTS The highest proportion of older people visited the ED because of multiple health conditions. The reasons for the visits were cardiovascular, mental health, musculoskeletal and abdominal conditions; adverse drug reactions; dermatological, neurological and respiratory conditions; poor health status; accidents; and the influence of time factors such as time of day, week or season. Factors that affected the discharge process were unresolved problems, health risk identification, aftercare instructions, medication prescribed at discharge and patient's residence before ED admission. Factors associated with repeat ED visits were sociodemographic characteristics, social problems, health problems, need for systematic health assessment, healthcare service use and inadequacy of care provided. CONCLUSIONS The current review showed that older people are the main population visiting EDs; important factors required for planning and providing nursing care for older people in EDs were identified. More research is needed to determine how EDs support older people and their families. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE The findings of the current review identified that older people visit ED quite often because of different reasons. Discharge process and repeat visits may be influenced by various factors. To ensure quality nursing care in ED nurses need to be aware why do older people visit the ED, what factors may influence discharge and what factors are associated with repeat ED visits.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Tarja Suominen
- School of Health Sciences, Nursing Sciences, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland
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Karam G, Radden Z, Berall LE, Cheng C, Gruneir A. Efficacy of emergency department-based interventions designed to reduce repeat visits and other adverse outcomes for older patients after discharge: A systematic review. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2015; 15:1107-17. [PMID: 26171554 PMCID: PMC5008161 DOI: 10.1111/ggi.12538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIM There is an urgent need for effective geriatric interventions to meet the health service demands of the growing older population. In this paper, we systematically review and update existing literature on interventions within emergency departments (ED) targeted towards reducing ED re-visits, hospitalizations, nursing home admissions and deaths in older patients after initial ED discharge. METHODS Databases Medline, CINAHL, Embase and Web of Science were searched to identify all articles published up to June 2012 that focused on older adults in the ED, included a comparison group, and reported quantitative results in four primary outcomes: ED re-visits, hospitalizations, nursing home admissions and death after initial ED discharge. RESULTS Of the 2826 titles screened, just nine studies met our inclusion criteria. The studies varied in their design and outcome measurements such that results could not be combined. Two trends surfaced: (i) more intensive interventions more frequently resulted in reduced adverse outcomes than did simple referral intervention types; and (ii) among the lowest intensity, referral-based interventions, studies that used a validated prediction tool to identify high-risk patients more frequently reported improved outcomes than those that did not use such a tool. CONCLUSION Of the few studies that met the inclusion criteria, there was a lack of consistency and clarity in study designs and evaluative outcomes. Despite this, more intensive interventions that followed patients beyond a referral and the use of a clinical risk prediction tool appeared to be associated with improved outcomes. The dearth of rigorous evaluations with standardized methodologies precludes further recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Karam
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Zoe Radden
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Laura E Berall
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Catherine Cheng
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrea Gruneir
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Griffey RT, Shin N, Jones S, Aginam N, Gross M, Kinsella Y, Williams JA, Carpenter CR, Goodman M, Kaphingst KA. The impact of teach-back on comprehension of discharge instructions and satisfaction among emergency patients with limited health literacy: A randomized, controlled study. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 8:10-21. [PMID: 26617669 DOI: 10.1179/1753807615y.0000000001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Recommended as a 'universal precaution' for improving provider-patient communication, teach-back has a limited evidence base. Discharge from the emergency department (ED) to home is an important high-risk transition of care with potential for miscommunication of critical information. We examined whether teach-back improves: comprehension and perceived comprehension of discharge instructions and satisfaction among patients with limited health literacy (LHL) in the ED. METHODS We performed a randomized, controlled study among adult patients with LHL, to teach-back or standard discharge instructions. Patients completed an audio-recorded structured interview evaluating comprehension and perceived comprehension of (1) diagnosis, (2) ED course, (3) post-ED care, and (4) reasons to return and satisfaction using four Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems questions. Concordance with the medical record was rated using a five-level scale. We analyzed differences between groups using multivariable ordinal logistic regression. RESULTS Patients randomized to receive teach-back had higher comprehension of post-ED care areas: post-ED medication (P < 0.02), self-care (P < 0.03), and follow-up instructions (P < 0.0001), but no change in patient satisfaction or perceived comprehension. CONCLUSION Teach-back appears to improve comprehension of post-ED care instructions but not satisfaction or perceived comprehension. Our data from a randomized, controlled study support the effectiveness of teach-back in a busy clinical setting. Further research is needed to test the utility and feasibility of teach-back for routine use including its impacts on distal outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard T Griffey
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Barnes Jewish Hospital, St. Louis, MO, USA ; Division of Emergency Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA ; Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Nicole Shin
- Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | | | | | - Maureen Gross
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Barnes Jewish Hospital, St. Louis, MO, USA ; Division of Emergency Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA ; Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Yonitte Kinsella
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Barnes Jewish Hospital, St. Louis, MO, USA ; Division of Emergency Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA ; Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jennifer A Williams
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Barnes Jewish Hospital, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Christopher R Carpenter
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Barnes Jewish Hospital, St. Louis, MO, USA ; Division of Emergency Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA ; Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Melody Goodman
- Division of Public Health Sciences, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis MO, USA
| | - Kimberly A Kaphingst
- Division of Public Health Sciences, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis MO, USA
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Reid DB, Parsons SR, Gill SD, Hughes AJ. Discharge communication from inpatient care: an audit of written medical discharge summary procedure against the new National Health Service Standard for clinical handover. AUST HEALTH REV 2015; 39:197-201. [DOI: 10.1071/ah14095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2014] [Accepted: 10/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Objective To audit written medical discharge summary procedure and practice against Standard Six (clinical handover) of the Australian National Safety and Quality Health Service Standards at a major regional Victorian health service. Methods Department heads were invited to complete a questionnaire about departmental discharge summary practices. Results Twenty-seven (82%) department heads completed the questionnaire. Seven (26%) departments had a documented discharge summary procedure. Fourteen (52%) departments monitored discharge summary completion and 13 (48%) departments monitored the timeliness of completion. Seven (26%) departments informed the patient of the content of the discharge summary and six (22%) departments provided the patient with a copy. Seven (26%) departments provided training for staff members on how to complete discharge summaries. Completing discharge summaries was usually delegated to the medical intern. Conclusions The introduction of the National Service Standards prompted an organisation-wide audit of discharge summary practices against the external criterion. There was substantial variation in the organisation’s practices. The Standards and the current audit results highlight an opportunity for the organisation to enhance and standardise discharge summary practices and improve communication with general practice. What is known about the topic? The Australian National Safety and Quality Health Service Standards (Standard 6) require health service organisations to implement documented systems that support structured and effective clinical handover. Discharge summaries are an important and often the only form of communication during a patient’s transition from hospital to the community. Incomplete, inaccurate and unavailable discharge summaries are common and expose patients to greater health risks. Junior staff members find completing discharge summaries difficult and fail to receive appropriate education or support. There is little published evidence regarding the discharge summary practices of inpatient health services. What does this paper add? The paper demonstrates that there is substantial variation in practice regarding discharge summaries in a large regional health service. Departments have different processes and vary in the degree of attention and quality assurance provided to discharge summaries. Variable organisation procedures make completing discharge summaries more difficult for junior doctors, who regularly move between departments. Variable practice is likely to increase the risk of absent, untimely, incomplete or incorrect communication between acute and community services, thereby reducing the quality of patient care. It is likely that similar findings would be found in other hospitals. What are the implications for practitioners? To be accredited under the National Safety and Quality Health Service Standards, health organisations must ensure that adequate processes are in place for safe and effective clinical handover. Organisations should reduce the practice variability by standardising processes, monitoring compliance with processes, and training and supporting junior doctors.
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