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Forbat L, Macgregor A, Spilsbury K, McCormack B, Rutherford A, Hanratty B, Hockley J, Davison L, Ogden M, Soulsby I, McKenzie M. Using Palliative Care Needs Rounds in the UK for care home staff and residents: an implementation science study. HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE DELIVERY RESEARCH 2024; 12:1-134. [PMID: 39046763 DOI: 10.3310/krwq5829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
Background Care home residents often lack access to end-of-life care from specialist palliative care providers. Palliative Care Needs Rounds, developed and tested in Australia, is a novel approach to addressing this. Objective To co-design and implement a scalable UK model of Needs Rounds. Design A pragmatic implementation study using the integrated Promoting Action on Research Implementation in Health Services framework. Setting Implementation was conducted in six case study sites (England, n = 4, and Scotland, n = 2) encompassing specialist palliative care service working with three to six care homes each. Participants Phase 1: interviews (n = 28 care home staff, specialist palliative care staff, relatives, primary care, acute care and allied health practitioners) and four workshops (n = 43 care home staff, clinicians and managers from specialist palliative care teams and patient and public involvement and engagement representatives). Phase 2: interviews (n = 58 care home and specialist palliative care staff); family questionnaire (n = 13 relatives); staff questionnaire (n = 171 care home staff); quality of death/dying questionnaire (n = 81); patient and public involvement and engagement evaluation interviews (n = 11); fidelity assessment (n = 14 Needs Rounds recordings). Interventions (1) Monthly hour-long discussions of residents' physical, psychosocial and spiritual needs, alongside case-based learning, (2) clinical work and (3) relative/multidisciplinary team meetings. Main outcome measures A programme theory describing what works for whom under what circumstances with UK Needs Rounds. Secondary outcomes focus on health service use and cost effectiveness, quality of death and dying, care home staff confidence and capability, and the use of patient and public involvement and engagement. Data sources Semistructured interviews and workshops with key stakeholders from the six sites; capability of adopting a palliative approach, quality of death and dying index, and Canadian Health Care Evaluation Project Lite questionnaires; recordings of Needs Rounds; care home data on resident demographics/health service use; assessments and interventions triggered by Needs Rounds; semistructured interviews with academic and patient and public involvement and engagement members. Results The programme theory: while care home staff experience workforce challenges such as high turnover, variable skills and confidence, Needs Rounds can provide care home and specialist palliative care staff the opportunity to collaborate during a protected time, to plan for residents' last months of life. Needs Rounds build care home staff confidence and can strengthen relationships and trust, while harnessing services' complementary expertise. Needs Rounds strengthen understandings of dying, symptom management, advance/anticipatory care planning and communication. This can improve resident care, enabling residents to be cared for and die in their preferred place, and may benefit relatives by increasing their confidence in care quality. Limitations COVID-19 restricted intervention and data collection. Due to an insufficient sample size, it was not possible to conduct a cost-benefit analysis of Needs Rounds or calculate the treatment effect or family perceptions of care. Conclusions Our work suggests that Needs Rounds can improve the quality of life and death for care home residents, by enhancing staff skills and confidence, including symptom management, communications with general practitioners and relatives, and strengthen relationships between care home and specialist palliative care staff. Future work Conduct analysis of costs-benefits and treatment effects. Engagement with commissioners and policy-makers could examine integration of Needs Rounds into care homes and primary care across the UK to ensure equitable access to specialist care. Study registration This study is registered as ISRCTN15863801. Funding This award was funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Health and Social Care Delivery Research programme (NIHR award ref: NIHR128799) and is published in full in Health and Social Care Delivery Research; Vol. 12, No. 19. See the NIHR Funding and Awards website for further award information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liz Forbat
- Faculty of Social Science, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
| | - Aisha Macgregor
- Faculty of Social Science, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
| | | | - Brendan McCormack
- Susan Wakil School of Nursing and Midwifery, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Queen Margaret University Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
- Østfold University College, Norway
| | | | - Barbara Hanratty
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Newcastle, England, UK
| | - Jo Hockley
- College of Medicine and Veterinary Science, University of Edinburgh, UK
| | - Lisa Davison
- Faculty of Social Science, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
| | - Margaret Ogden
- Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement, Faculty of Social Science, University of Stirling, UK
| | - Irene Soulsby
- Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement, Faculty of Social Science, University of Stirling, UK
| | - Maisie McKenzie
- Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement, Faculty of Social Science, University of Stirling, UK
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Tate K, Cummings G, Jacobsen F, Halas G, Van den Bergh G, Devkota R, Shrestha S, Doupe M. Strategies to Improve Emergency Transitions From Long-Term Care Facilities: A Scoping Review. THE GERONTOLOGIST 2024; 64:gnae036. [PMID: 38661440 PMCID: PMC11184529 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnae036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Older adults residing in residential aged care facilities (RACFs) often experience substandard transitions to emergency departments (EDs) through rationed and delayed ED care. We aimed to identify research describing interventions to improve transitions from RACFs to EDs. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS In our scoping review, we included English language articles that (a) examined an intervention to improve transitions from RACF to EDs; and (b) focused on older adults (≥65 years). We employed content analysis. Dy et al.'s Care Transitions Framework was used to assess the contextualization of interventions and measurement of implementation success. RESULTS Interventions in 28 studies included geriatric assessment or outreach services (n = 7), standardized documentation forms (n = 6), models of care to improve transitions from RACFs to EDs (n = 6), telehealth services (n = 3), nurse-led care coordination programs (n = 2), acute-care geriatric departments (n = 2), an extended paramedicine program (n = 1), and a web-based referral system (n = 1). Many studies (n = 17) did not define what "improvement" entailed and instead assessed documentation strategies and distal outcomes (e.g., hospital admission rates, length of stay). Few authors reported how they contextualized interventions to align with care environments and/or evaluated implementation success. Few studies included clinician perspectives and no study examined resident- or family/friend caregiver-reported outcomes. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS Mixed or nonsignificant results prevent us from recommending (or discouraging) any interventions. Given the complexity of these transitions and the need to create sustainable improvement strategies, future research should describe strategies used to embed innovations in care contexts and to measure both implementation and intervention success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaitlyn Tate
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Greta Cummings
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Frode Jacobsen
- Centre for Care Research, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, Bergen, Vestland, Norway
| | - Gayle Halas
- School of Dental Hygiene, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Graziella Van den Bergh
- Department of Health and Functioning, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, Bergen, Vestland, Norway
| | - Rashmi Devkota
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Shovana Shrestha
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Malcolm Doupe
- Rady Faculty Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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Pu D, Cameron P, Chapman W, Greenstock L, Sanci L, Callisaya ML, Haines T. Virtual emergency care in Victoria: Stakeholder perspectives of strengths, weaknesses, and barriers and facilitators of service scale-up. Australas Emerg Care 2024; 27:102-108. [PMID: 37852805 DOI: 10.1016/j.auec.2023.10.001] [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: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Virtual emergency services have been proposed as an alternative service model to conventional in-person emergency department attendance. METHODS Twenty participants were interviewed: 10 emergency medicine physicians, 4 health care consumers, and 6 other health care professionals. Conventional content analysis was performed on the interview transcriptions to identify perceived strengths and weaknesses of the VED, and barriers and facilitators to scaling-up the VED. RESULTS VEDs are perceived as a convenient approach to provide and receive emergency care while ensuring safety and quality of care, however some patients may still need to attend the ED in person for physical assessments. There is currently a lack of evidence, guidelines, and resources to support their implementation. Most of the potential and existing barriers and facilitators for scaling-up the VED were related to their effectiveness, reach and adoption. Broader public health contextual factors were viewed as barriers, while potential actions to address resources and costs could be facilitators. CONCLUSIONS VEDs were viewed as a convenient service model to provide care, can not replace all in-person visits. Current policies and guidelines are insufficient for wider implementation. Most of the barriers and facilitators for its scaling-up were related to VED effectiveness and delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dai Pu
- School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing, and Health Sciences, Monash University, Australia; Monash Partners Academic Health Science Centre, Australia.
| | - Peter Cameron
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Emergency and Trauma Centre, The Alfred Hospital, Australia
| | - Wendy Chapman
- Centre for Digital Transformation of Health, University of Melbourne, Australia; Melbourne Academic Centre for Health, Australia
| | | | - Lena Sanci
- Department of General Practice, Melbourne Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Australia; The ALIVE National Centre for Mental Health Research Translation, Australia
| | - Michele L Callisaya
- Peninsula Clinical School, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Australia; Menzies Institute for Medical Research, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Australia
| | - Terry Haines
- School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing, and Health Sciences, Monash University, Australia; Monash Partners Academic Health Science Centre, Australia
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Deniau N, Shojaei T, Georges A, Danis J, Czapiuk G, Mercier S, Maari C, Pourchet S, Balladur E, Leclaire C. Home emergency response team for the seriously ill palliative care patient: feasibility and effectiveness. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2024; 14:187-190. [PMID: 37844998 PMCID: PMC11103340 DOI: 10.1136/spcare-2023-004385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To characterise trajectories associated with a new team organisation combining critical care and palliative care approaches at home. METHODS We describe the pattern of an emergency response team 24/7 directed to patients with advanced illness presenting a distressing symptom at home, who wanted to stay at home and for whom hospitalisation was considered inappropriate by a shared medical decision-making process in an emergency situation. To assess preliminary impact of this Programme, we conducted a descriptive study on all consecutive patients receiving this intervention during the first year (between 6 September 2021 and 5 September 2022). RESULTS Among the 352 patients included, main advanced illnesses were cancer (41%), dementia (28%) or chronic organ failure (10%). They were critically ill with acute failures: respiratory (52%), neurological (48%) or circulatory (20%). Main distressing symptoms were breathlessness (43%) and pain (17%). Median response time from call to home-visit (IQR) was 140 (90-265) min. Median length of follow-up (IQR) was 4 (2-7) days. Main outcomes were death at home (72%), improvement (19%) or hospitalisation (9%) including three visits to emergency department (1%). CONCLUSIONS Our study supports that shared decision-making process and urgent care at home are feasible and might prevent undesired hospitalisations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Deniau
- Paris Public Hospital at Home (HAD AP-HP), Greater Paris University Hospitals, Assistance Publique-Hopitaux de Paris, Paris, Île-de-France, France
| | - Taraneh Shojaei
- Paris Public Hospital at Home (HAD AP-HP), Greater Paris University Hospitals, Assistance Publique-Hopitaux de Paris, Paris, Île-de-France, France
| | - Alexandre Georges
- Paris Public Hospital at Home (HAD AP-HP), Greater Paris University Hospitals, Assistance Publique-Hopitaux de Paris, Paris, Île-de-France, France
| | - Jean Danis
- Paris Public Hospital at Home (HAD AP-HP), Greater Paris University Hospitals, Assistance Publique-Hopitaux de Paris, Paris, Île-de-France, France
| | - Georges Czapiuk
- Paris Public Hospital at Home (HAD AP-HP), Greater Paris University Hospitals, Assistance Publique-Hopitaux de Paris, Paris, Île-de-France, France
| | - Stephane Mercier
- Paris Public Hospital at Home (HAD AP-HP), Greater Paris University Hospitals, Assistance Publique-Hopitaux de Paris, Paris, Île-de-France, France
| | - Claudine Maari
- Paris Public Hospital at Home (HAD AP-HP), Greater Paris University Hospitals, Assistance Publique-Hopitaux de Paris, Paris, Île-de-France, France
| | - Sylvain Pourchet
- Paris Public Hospital at Home (HAD AP-HP), Greater Paris University Hospitals, Assistance Publique-Hopitaux de Paris, Paris, Île-de-France, France
| | - Elisabeth Balladur
- Paris Public Hospital at Home (HAD AP-HP), Greater Paris University Hospitals, Assistance Publique-Hopitaux de Paris, Paris, Île-de-France, France
| | - Clement Leclaire
- Paris Public Hospital at Home (HAD AP-HP), Greater Paris University Hospitals, Assistance Publique-Hopitaux de Paris, Paris, Île-de-France, France
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Merrick E, Bloomfield K, Seplaki C, Shannon K, Wham C, Winnington R, Neville S, Bail K, Fry M, Turner M, MacFarlane J. A systematic review of reasons and risks for acute service use by older adult residents of long-term care. J Clin Nurs 2024. [PMID: 38616544 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.17165] [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: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES To identify the reasons and/or risk factors for hospital admission and/or emergency department attendance for older (≥60 years) residents of long-term care facilities. BACKGROUND Older adults' use of acute services is associated with significant financial and social costs. A global understanding of the reasons for the use of acute services may allow for early identification and intervention, avoid clinical deterioration, reduce the demand for health services and improve quality of life. DESIGN Systematic review registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022326964) and reported following PRISMA guidelines. METHODS The search strategy was developed in consultation with an academic librarian. The strategy used MeSH terms and relevant keywords. Articles published since 2017 in English were eligible for inclusion. CINAHL, MEDLINE, Scopus and Web of Science Core Collection were searched (11/08/22). Title, abstract, and full texts were screened against the inclusion/exclusion criteria; data extraction was performed two blinded reviewers. Quality of evidence was assessed using the NewCastle Ottawa Scale (NOS). RESULTS Thirty-nine articles were eligible and included in this review; included research was assessed as high-quality with a low risk of bias. Hospital admission was reported as most likely to occur during the first year of residence in long-term care. Respiratory and cardiovascular diagnoses were frequently associated with acute services use. Frailty, hypotensive medications, falls and inadequate nutrition were associated with unplanned service use. CONCLUSIONS Modifiable risks have been identified that may act as a trigger for assessment and be amenable to early intervention. Coordinated intervention may have significant individual, social and economic benefits. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE This review has identified several modifiable reasons for acute service use by older adults. Early and coordinated intervention may reduce the risk of hospital admission and/or emergency department. REPORTING METHOD This systematic review was conducted and reported following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION No patient or public contribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eamon Merrick
- Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney and Northern Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Katherine Bloomfield
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Older Adult Services, Te Whatu Ora Waitematā, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Christopher Seplaki
- Department of Public Health Sciences and Psychiatry, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Kay Shannon
- School of Clinical Science, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Carol Wham
- School of Sport, Exercise and Nutrition, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Rhona Winnington
- School of Clinical Science, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Stephen Neville
- Department of Wellbeing and Ageing, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Kasia Bail
- Department of Nursing, University of Canberra, Canberra, Australia
| | - Margaret Fry
- Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney and Northern Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Murray Turner
- Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Canberra, Australia
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Davis EL, Mullan J, Johnson CE, Clapham S, Daveson B, Bishop G, Ahern M, Connolly A, Davis W, Eagar K. The experience of Australian aged care workers during a trial implementation of a palliative care outcomes programme. Int J Health Plann Manage 2024; 39:380-396. [PMID: 37943734 DOI: 10.1002/hpm.3731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
End of life care is an essential part of the role of Australian aged care homes (ACHs). However, there is no national framework to support aged care staff in systematically identifying residents with palliative care needs or to routinely assess, respond to, and measure end of life needs. The Palliative Care Outcomes Collaboration (PCOC) is a national outcomes and benchmarking programme which aims to systematically improve palliative care for people who are approaching the end of life, and for their families and carers. The PCOC Wicking Model for Residential Aged Care was developed and piloted in four Australian ACHs. This paper reports on the qualitative findings from semi-structured interviews and focus groups conducted with ACH staff (N = 37) to examine feasibility. Thematic analysis identified three overarching themes about the pilot: (i) processes to successfully prepare and support ACHs; (ii) appropriateness of PCOC tools for the ACH setting; and (iii) realised and potential benefits of the model for ACHs. The lessons presented valuable insights to refine the PCOC Wicking Model and enrich understanding of the potential challenges and solutions for implementing similar programs within ACHs in future. The results suggest that key to successfully preparing ACHs for implementation of the PCOC Wicking Model is an authentic and well-paced collaborative approach with ACHs to ensure the resources, structures and systems are in place and appropriate for the setting. The PCOC Wicking Model for Residential Aged Care is a promising prototype to support ACHs in improving palliative and end of life care outcomes for residents and their carers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther L Davis
- Centre for Health Research Illawarra Shoalhaven Population, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Judy Mullan
- Centre for Health Research Illawarra Shoalhaven Population, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Claire E Johnson
- Palliative Care Outcomes Collaboration, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sabina Clapham
- Palliative Care Outcomes Collaboration, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Barbara Daveson
- Palliative Care Outcomes Collaboration, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Gaye Bishop
- Palliative Care Outcomes Collaboration, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Malene Ahern
- Palliative Care Outcomes Collaboration, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Alanna Connolly
- Palliative Care Outcomes Collaboration, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Walter Davis
- Australian Health Services Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kathy Eagar
- Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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Tian Y, Wang S, Zhang Y, Meng L, Li X. Effectiveness of information and communication technology-based integrated care for older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Public Health 2024; 11:1276574. [PMID: 38249380 PMCID: PMC10797014 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1276574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Information and communication technology (ICT) is a key factor in advancing the implementation of integrated care for older adults in the context of an aging society and the normalization of epidemics. This systematic review aims to comprehensively evaluate the effectiveness of ICT-based integrated care for older adults to provide input for the construction of intelligent integrated care models suitable for the context of an aging population in China. Methods A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted using PubMed, Web of Science Core Collection, Scopus, MEDLINE, EBSCO, EMBASE, CINAHL with full text, ProQuest, and Cochrane Library databases, along with the Google Scholar search engine, for papers published between January 1, 2000, and July 25, 2022, to include randomized controlled trials and quasi-experimental studies of ICT-based integrated care for older adults. Two reviewers independently performed literature screening, quality assessment (JBI standardized critical appraisal tool), and data extraction. The results were pooled using a random effects model, and narrative synthesis was used for studies with insufficient outcome data. Results We included 32 studies (21 interventions) with a total of 30,200 participants (14,289 in the control group and 15,911 in the intervention group). However, the quality of the literature could be improved. The meta-analysis results showed that ICT-based integrated care significantly improved the overall perceived health status of older adults (n=3 studies, MD 1.29 (CI 0.11 to 2.46), no heterogeneity) and reduced the number of emergency department visits (n=11 studies, OR 0.46 (CI 0.25 to 0.86), high heterogeneity) but had no significant effect on improving quality of life, mobility, depression, hospital admissions and readmissions, or mortality in older adults, with a high degree of study heterogeneity. Narrative analysis showed that the overall quality of care, primary care service use, and functional status of older adults in the intervention group improved, but the cost-effectiveness was unclear. Conclusions ICT-based integrated care is effective in improving health outcomes for older adults, but the quality and homogeneity of the evidence base need to be improved. Researchers should develop intelligent integrated care programs in the context of local health and care welfare provision systems for older adults, along with the preferences and priorities of the older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutong Tian
- School of Nursing and Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Shanshan Wang
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- School of Nursing and Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Lixue Meng
- School of Nursing and Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Xiaohua Li
- School of Nursing and Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
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Sunner C, Giles M, Ball J, Barker R, Hullick C, Oldmeadow C, Foureur M. Implementation and evaluation of a nurse-led intervention to augment an existing residential aged care facility outreach service with a visual telehealth consultation: stepped-wedge cluster randomised controlled trial. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:1429. [PMID: 38110923 PMCID: PMC10726593 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-10384-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Up to 75% of residents from residential aged care facilities (RACF) are transferred to emergency departments (ED) annually to access assessment and care for unplanned or acute health events. Emergency department presentations of RACF residents can be both expensive and risky, and many are unnecessary and preventable. Processes or triage systems to assess residents with a health event, prior to transfer, may reduce unnecessary ED transfer. The Aged Care Emergency (ACE) service is a nurse-led ED outreach service that provides telephone support to RACF nurses regarding residents' health events. This service is available Monday to Friday, 8am to 4 pm (ED ACE hours). The primary objective of this study was to assess whether the augmentation of the phone-based ED ACE service with the addition of a visual telehealth consultation (VTC) would reduce RACF rate of ED presentations compared to usual care. The secondary objectives were to 1) monitor presentations to ED within 48 h post VTC to detect any adverse events and 2) measure RACF staff perceptions of VTC useability and acceptability. METHODS This implementation study used a stepped wedge cluster randomised controlled trial design. Study settings were four public hospital EDs and 16 RACFs in two Local Health Districts. Each ED was linked to 4 RACFs with approximately 350 RACF beds, totalling 1435 beds across 16 participating RACFs. Facilities were randomised into eight clusters with each cluster comprising one ED and two RACFs. RESULTS A negative binomial regression demonstrated a 29% post-implementation reduction in the rate of ED presentations (per 100 RACF beds), within ED ACE hours (IRR [95% CI]: 0.71 [0.46, 1. 09]; p = 0.122). A 29% reduction, whilst not statistically significant, is still clinically important and impactful for residents and EDs. A post-hoc logistic regression demonstrated a statistically significant 69% reduction in the probability that an episode of care resulted in an ED presentation within ED ACE hours post-implementation compared to pre-implementation (OR [95% CI]: 0.31 [0.11, 0.87]; p = 0.025). CONCLUSION Findings have shown the positive impact of augmenting ACE with a VTC. Any reduction of resident presentations to a busy ED is beneficial to healthcare overall, but more so to the individual older person who can recover safely and comfortably in their own RACF. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ID ACTR N12619001692123) (02/12/2019) https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=378629andisReview=true.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Sunner
- Hunter New England Local Health District, Newcastle, 2300, Australia.
- University of Newcastle, Callaghan, 2308, Australia.
| | - Michelle Giles
- Hunter New England Local Health District, Newcastle, 2300, Australia
- University of Newcastle, Callaghan, 2308, Australia
| | - Jean Ball
- Hunter New England Local Health District, Newcastle, 2300, Australia
| | - Roslyn Barker
- Hunter New England Local Health District, Newcastle, 2300, Australia
| | - Carolyn Hullick
- Hunter New England Local Health District, Newcastle, 2300, Australia
- University of Newcastle, Callaghan, 2308, Australia
| | | | - Maralyn Foureur
- Hunter New England Local Health District, Newcastle, 2300, Australia
- University of Newcastle, Callaghan, 2308, Australia
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Huang GY, Kumar M, Liu X, Irwanto D, Zhou Y, Chirapa E, Xu YH, Shulruf B, Chan DKY. Telemedicine vs Face-to-Face for Nursing Home Residents With Acute Presentations: A Noninferiority Study. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2023; 24:1471-1477. [PMID: 37419143 DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2023.05.031] [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: 02/26/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Telemedicine and face-to-face outreach services to nursing homes (NHs) have been used to reduce hospital utilization rates for acute presentations. However, how these modalities compare against each other is unclear. This article examines if the management of acute presentations in NHs with care involving telemedicine is noninferior to care delivered face-to-face. DESIGN A noninferiority study was conducted on a prospective cohort. Face-to-face intervention involved on-site assessment by a geriatrician and aged care clinical nurse specialist (CNS). Telemedicine intervention involved on-site assessment by an aged care CNS with telemedicine input by a geriatrician. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS A total of 438 NH residents with acute presentations from 17 NHs between November 2021 and June 2022. METHODS Between-group differences in proportion of residents successfully managed on-site and mean number of encounters were evaluated using bootstrapped multiple linear regression; 95% CIs were compared against predefined noninferiority margins with noninferiority P values calculated. RESULTS In the adjusted models, care involving telemedicine demonstrated noninferiority in the difference in proportion of residents successfully managed on-site (95% CI lower limit -6.2% to -1.4% vs -10% noninferiority margin; P < .001 for noninferiority) but not in the difference in mean number of encounters (95% CI upper limit 1.42 to 1.50 encounters vs 1 encounter noninferiority margin; P = .7 for noninferiority). CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS In our model of care, care that involved telemedicine was noninferior to care delivered face-to-face in managing NH residents with acute presentations on-site. However, additional encounters may be required. Application of telemedicine ought to be tailored to fit the needs and preferences of stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary Y Huang
- Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Manoj Kumar
- Department of Aged Care and Rehabilitation, Bankstown-Lidcombe Hospital, Bankstown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Xinsheng Liu
- Department of Aged Care and Rehabilitation, Bankstown-Lidcombe Hospital, Bankstown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Deni Irwanto
- Department of Aged Care and Rehabilitation, Bankstown-Lidcombe Hospital, Bankstown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - You Zhou
- Department of Aged Care and Rehabilitation, Bankstown-Lidcombe Hospital, Bankstown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ethel Chirapa
- Department of Aged Care and Rehabilitation, Bankstown-Lidcombe Hospital, Bankstown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ying H Xu
- Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; Department of Aged Care and Rehabilitation, Bankstown-Lidcombe Hospital, Bankstown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Boaz Shulruf
- Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Daniel K Y Chan
- Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; Department of Aged Care and Rehabilitation, Bankstown-Lidcombe Hospital, Bankstown, New South Wales, Australia.
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Chambers D, Cantrell A, Preston L, Marincowitz C, Wright L, Conroy S, Lee Gordon A. Reducing unplanned hospital admissions from care homes: a systematic review. HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE DELIVERY RESEARCH 2023; 11:1-130. [PMID: 37916580 DOI: 10.3310/klpw6338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
Background Care homes predominantly care for older people with complex health and care needs, who are at high risk of unplanned hospital admissions. While often necessary, such admissions can be distressing and provide an opportunity cost as well as a financial cost. Objectives Our objective was to update a 2014 evidence review of interventions to reduce unplanned admissions of care home residents. We carried out a systematic review of interventions used in the UK and other high-income countries by synthesising evidence of effects of these interventions on hospital admissions; feasibility and acceptability; costs and value for money; and factors affecting applicability of international evidence to UK settings. Data sources We searched the following databases in December 2021 for studies published since 2014: Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews; Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature; Health Management Information Consortium; Medline; PsycINFO; Science and Social Sciences Citation Indexes; Social Care Online; and Social Service Abstracts. 'Grey' literature (January 2022) and citations were searched and reference lists were checked. Methods We included studies of any design reporting interventions delivered in care homes (with or without nursing) or hospitals to reduce unplanned hospital admissions. A taxonomy of interventions was developed from an initial scoping search. Outcomes of interest included measures of effect on unplanned admissions among care home residents; barriers/facilitators to implementation in a UK setting and acceptability to care home residents, their families and staff. Study selection, data extraction and risk of bias assessment were performed by two independent reviewers. We used published frameworks to extract data on intervention characteristics, implementation barriers/facilitators and applicability of international evidence. We performed a narrative synthesis grouped by intervention type and setting. Overall strength of evidence for admission reduction was assessed using a framework based on study design, study numbers and direction of effect. Results We included 124 publications/reports (30 from the UK). Integrated care and quality improvement programmes providing additional support to care homes (e.g. the English Care Homes Vanguard initiatives and hospital-based services in Australia) appeared to reduce unplanned admissions relative to usual care. Simpler training and staff development initiatives showed mixed results, as did interventions aimed at tackling specific problems (e.g. medication review). Advance care planning was key to the success of most quality improvement programmes but do-not-hospitalise orders were problematic. Qualitative research identified tensions affecting decision-making involving paramedics, care home staff and residents/family carers. The best way to reduce end-of-life admissions through access to palliative care was unclear in the face of inconsistent and generally low-quality evidence. Conclusions Effective implementation of interventions at various stages of residents' care pathways may reduce unplanned admissions. Most interventions are complex and require adaptation to local contexts. Work at the interface between health and social care is key to successful implementation. Limitations Much of the evidence identified was of low quality because of factors such as uncontrolled study designs and small sample size. Meta-analysis was not possible. Future work We identified a need for improved economic evidence and the evaluation of integrated care models of the type delivered by hospital-based teams. Researchers should carefully consider what is realistic in terms of study design and data collection given the current context of extreme pressure on care homes. Study registration This study is registered as PROSPERO database CRD42021289418. Funding This project was funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Health and Social Care Delivery Research programme (award number NIHR133884) and will be published in full in Health and Social Care Delivery Research; Vol. 11, No. 18. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duncan Chambers
- School of Health and Related Research (ScHARR), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Anna Cantrell
- School of Health and Related Research (ScHARR), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Louise Preston
- School of Health and Related Research (ScHARR), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Carl Marincowitz
- School of Health and Related Research (ScHARR), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | | | - Simon Conroy
- MRC Unit for Lifelong Health and Ageing at UCL, London, UK
| | - Adam Lee Gordon
- Academic Unit of Injury, Recovery and Inflammation Sciences (IRIS), School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
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11
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Read M, Peters S, Bennett N, Francis JJ, Fetherstonhaugh D, Lim WK, Tropea J. Communities of practice in residential aged care: A rapid review. Int J Older People Nurs 2023; 18:e12563. [PMID: 37563846 DOI: 10.1111/opn.12563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Communities of practice (CoPs) have the potential to help address the residential aged care system's need for continuing education and quality improvement. CoPs have been used in healthcare to improve clinical practice; however, little is known about their application to the unique residential aged care context. OBJECTIVES This rapid review of CoPs for residential aged care was conducted to summarise the features of CoPs, how they are developed and maintained, and assess their effectiveness. METHODS MEDLINE and CINAHL databases were searched for studies published from January 1991 to November 2022 about CoPs in residential aged care. Data were extracted regarding the CoPs' three key features of 'domain', 'community' and 'practice' as described by Wenger and colleagues. Kirkpatrick's four levels of evaluation (members' reactions, learning, behaviour and results) was used to examine studies on the effectiveness of CoPs. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool was used for quality appraisal. RESULTS Nineteen articles reported on 13 residential aged care CoPs. Most CoPs aimed to improve care quality (n = 9, 69%) while others aimed to educate members (n = 3, 23%). Membership was often multidisciplinary (n = 8, 62%), and interactions were in-person (n = 6, 46%), online (n = 3, 23%) or both (n = 4, 31%). Some CoPs were developed with the aid of a planning group (n = 4, 31%) or as part of a larger collaborative (n = 4, 31%), and were maintained using a facilitator (n = 7, 54%) or adapted to member feedback (n = 2, 15%). Thirteen (81%) studies evaluated members' reactions, and three (24%) studies assessed members' behaviour. The heterogeneity of studies and levels of reporting made it difficult to synthesise findings. CONCLUSIONS This review revealed the variation in why, and how, CoPs have been used in residential aged care, which is consistent with previous reviews of CoPs in healthcare. While these findings can inform the development of CoPs in this context, further research is needed to understand how CoPs, including the membership makeup, delivery mode, facilitator type and frequency of meetings, impact quality of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Read
- Department of Medicine - Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sanne Peters
- School of Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Noleen Bennett
- Victorian Healthcare Associated Infection Surveillance System (VICNISS) Coordinating Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Nursing, School of Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jill J Francis
- School of Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Centre for Implementation Research, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Deirdre Fetherstonhaugh
- Australian Centre for Evidence Based Aged Care (ACEBAC), AIPCA, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Wen Kwang Lim
- Department of Medicine - Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Aged Care, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Joanne Tropea
- Department of Medicine - Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Aged Care, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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12
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Kukafka R, Gupta A, Gilbert C, Huggins CE, Browning C, Chapman W, Haines T, Peeters A. Virtual Care Initiatives for Older Adults in Australia: Scoping Review. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e38081. [PMID: 36652291 PMCID: PMC9892987 DOI: 10.2196/38081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There has been a rapid shift toward the adoption of virtual health care services in Australia. It is unknown how widely virtual care has been implemented or evaluated for the care of older adults in Australia. OBJECTIVE We aimed to review the literature evaluating virtual care initiatives for older adults across a wide range of health conditions and modalities and identify key challenges and opportunities for wider adoption at both patient and system levels in Australia. METHODS A scoping review of the literature was conducted. We searched MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL, AgeLine, and gray literature (January 1, 2011, to March 8, 2021) to identify virtual care initiatives for older Australians (aged ≥65 years). The results were reported according to the World Health Organization's digital health evaluation framework. RESULTS Among the 6296 documents in the search results, we identified 94 that reported 80 unique virtual care initiatives. Most (69/80, 89%) were at the pilot stage and targeted community-dwelling older adults (64/79, 81%) with chronic diseases (52/80, 65%). The modes of delivery included videoconference, telephone, apps, device or monitoring systems, and web-based technologies. Most initiatives showed either similar or better health and behavioral outcomes compared with in-person care. The key barriers for wider adoption were physical, cognitive, or sensory impairment in older adults and staffing issues, legislative issues, and a lack of motivation among providers. CONCLUSIONS Virtual care is a viable model of care to address a wide range of health conditions among older adults in Australia. More embedded and integrative evaluations are needed to ensure that virtually enabled care can be used more widely by older Australians and health care providers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Adyya Gupta
- Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Cecily Gilbert
- Centre for Digital Transformation of Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Catherine E Huggins
- Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Colette Browning
- Health Innovation and Transformation Centre, Federation University, Ballarat, Australia.,Institute of Health and Wellbeing, Federation University, Ballarat, Australia
| | - Wendy Chapman
- Centre for Digital Transformation of Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Terry Haines
- National Centre for Healthy Ageing, Monash University, Frankston, Australia.,School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Monash University, Frankston, Australia
| | - Anna Peeters
- Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
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13
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O'Neill BJ, Dwyer T, Parkinson L, Reid-Searl K, Jeffrey D. Identifying the core components of a nursing home hospital avoidance programme. Int J Older People Nurs 2023; 18:e12493. [PMID: 35943901 PMCID: PMC10078518 DOI: 10.1111/opn.12493] [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: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nursing home hospital avoidance programmes have contributed to a reduction in unnecessary emergency transfers but a description of the core components of the programmes has not been forthcoming. A well-operationalised health-care programme requires clarity around core components to evaluate and replicate the programme. Core components are the essential functions and principles that must be implemented to produce expected outcomes. OBJECTIVES To identify the core components of a nursing home hospital avoidance programme by assessing how the core components identified at one nursing home (Site One) translated to a second nursing home (Site Two). METHODS Data collected during the programme's implementation at Site Two were reviewed for evidence of how the core components named at Site One were implemented at Site Two and to determine if any additional core components were evident. The preliminary updated core components were then shared with seven evaluators familiar with the hospital avoidance programme for consensus. RESULTS The updated core components were agreed to include the following: Decision Support Tools, Advanced Clinical Skills Training, Specialist Clinical Support and Collaboration, Facility Policy and Procedures, Family and Care Recipient Education and Engagement, Culture of Staff Readiness, Supportive Executive and Facility Management. CONCLUSION This study launches a discussion on the need to identify hospital avoidance programme core components, while providing valuable insight into how Site One core programme components, such as resources, education and training, clinical and facility support, translated to Site Two, and why modifications and additions, such as incorporating the programme into facility policy, family education and executive support were necessary, and the ramifications of those changes. The next step is to take the eight core component categories and undertake a rigorous fidelity assessment as part of formal process evaluation where the components can be critiqued and measured across multiple nursing home sites. The core components can then be used as evidence-based building blocks for developing, implementing and evaluating nursing home hospital avoidance programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara J O'Neill
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Sciences, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton, Queensland, Australia.,School of Nursing, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut, USA
| | - Trudy Dwyer
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Sciences, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton, Queensland, Australia
| | - Lynne Parkinson
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of New Castle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kerry Reid-Searl
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Sciences, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton, Queensland, Australia
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14
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Detecting Acute Deterioration in Older Adults Living in Residential Aged Care: A Scoping Review. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2022; 23:1517-1540. [PMID: 35738427 DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2022.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore models, processes, or tools implemented in residential aged care (RAC) to support registered nurses (RNs) to identify and respond to the acute deterioration of residents. DESIGN Scoping literature review of English Language articles published in peer reviewed journals. SETTINGS AND PARTICIPANTS Studies were conducted in RAC facilities providing long-term 24-hour medical, nursing, and social care for people age 65 years or older with age-related disability. METHODS We completed a MESH term and key word search of MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, PubMed, and Google Scholar. Included studies had (1) part of the intervention based in RAC; (2) had a direct impact on RAC day to day practice; and (3) contained or provided access to the detail of the intervention. Data was charted by author, date, country, study design and the components, genesis, and efficacy of the methods used to identify and respond to acute deterioration. RESULTS We found 46 studies detailing models of care, clinical patterns of acute deterioration, and deterioration detection tools. It was not possible to determine which element of the models care had the greatest impact on RN decision making. The clinical patterns of acute deterioration painted a picture of acute deterioration in the frail. There was limited evidence to support the use of existing deterioration detection tools in the RAC population. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS We found no straight forward systematic method to support RAC RNs to identify and respond to the acute deterioration of residents. This is an important practice gap. The clinical pattern of acute deterioration described in the literature has the potential to be used for the development of a tool to support RAC RNs to identify and respond to the acute deterioration of residents.
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15
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Chiswell K, Bein K, Simpkins D, Latt M, Dinh M. Emergency department presentations and 30-day mortality in patients from residential aged care facilities. AUST HEALTH REV 2022; 46:414-420. [PMID: 35576988 DOI: 10.1071/ah21275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
ObjectiveTo describe patterns of emergency department (ED) presentations and predictors of 30-day mortality in patients referred from a residential aged care facility (RACF).MethodsA retrospective analysis of linked state-wide emergency, inpatient and death data from 136 public ED hospitals in New South Wales, Australia. Data were collected from the NSW Emergency Department Data Collection database, the NSW Admitted Patient Data Collection database and the NSW Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages. All patients aged ≥65 years presenting to the ED from a RACF between January 2017 and July 2018 were included. ED diagnosis categories, re-admission rates within 30 days and 30-day all-cause mortality were measured.ResultsIn total, 43 248 presentations were identified. The most common ED diagnosis categories were: injury (26.48%), respiratory conditions (14.12%) and cardiovascular conditions (10.74%). Prolonged ED length of stay was associated with higher adjusted hazard ratios for 30-day all-cause mortality after adjustments for age Charlson Comorbidity Index, triage category and diagnosis category (HR 1.10 95% CI 1.05-1.14 P < 0.001).ConclusionsA large proportion of ED presentations from RACFs were for injuries associated with falls and chest infections. There was a range of both high- and low-urgency presentations. Both the 30-day mortality and re-admission rates were high. Predictors of increased mortality included prolonged length of stay in the ED and re-admission within 30 days. The findings are useful in informing discussion around improving access to care in RACFs and coordination of healthcare providers in this cohort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Chiswell
- Medical Training Unit, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney Local Health District, NSW, Australia
| | - Kendall Bein
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital Green Light Institute for Emergency Care, Sydney Local Health District, NSW, Australia
| | - Daniel Simpkins
- Geriatrics Department, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney Local Health District, NSW, Australia
| | - Mark Latt
- Geriatrics Department, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney Local Health District, NSW, Australia
| | - Michael Dinh
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital Green Light Institute for Emergency Care, Sydney Local Health District, NSW, Australia; and The University of Sydney, Faculty of Medicine and Health, NSW, Australia
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16
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Gurung A, Romeo M, Clark S, Hocking J, Dhollande S, Broadbent M. The enigma: Decision-making to transfer residents to the emergency department; communication and care delivery between emergency department staff and residential aged care facilities' nurses. Australas J Ageing 2022; 41:e348-e355. [PMID: 35187797 DOI: 10.1111/ajag.13044] [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: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the experience of nurses involved in decision-making to transfer residents from a residential aged care facility (RACF) to their local hospital emergency department. This paper reports on the findings of the second phase of a two-phase study. METHODS Qualitative semi-structured interviews with 19 aged care nurses were conducted. Interviews were audio-taped and transcribed verbatim, and a thematic analysis was carried out. RESULTS The analysis revealed five major themes that influenced decision-making in relation to the transfer of a resident from the residential aged care facility to the emergency department: conflict with key stakeholders; knowledge and experience; policy and process; stakeholder perception; and recognition and support. CONCLUSIONS Robust outreach programs, support from other health-care professionals, and improving interdisciplinary understanding and communication between aged care nurses, paramedics and the emergency department would be advantageous to ensure effective care delivery and decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Apil Gurung
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, University of the Sunshine Coast, Marcoochydore, Queensland, Australia
| | - Michele Romeo
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, University of the Sunshine Coast, Marcoochydore, Queensland, Australia
| | - Sean Clark
- Emergency Department at Caboolture Hospital, Metro-North Hospital and Health Services, Caboolture, Queensland, Australia
| | - Julia Hocking
- Office for Research, Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland, Australia
| | - Shannon Dhollande
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, University of the Sunshine Coast, Marcoochydore, Queensland, Australia
| | - Marc Broadbent
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, University of the Sunshine Coast, Marcoochydore, Queensland, Australia
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17
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Hullick C, Conway J, Hall A, Murdoch W, Cole J, Hewitt J, Oldmeadow C, Attia J. Video-telehealth to support clinical assessment and management of acutely unwell older people in Residential Aged Care: a pre-post intervention study. BMC Geriatr 2022; 22:40. [PMID: 35012480 PMCID: PMC8744579 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-021-02703-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Older people living in Residential Aged Care (RAC) are at high risk of clinical deterioration. Telehealth has the potential to provide timely, patient-centred care where transfer to hospital can be a burden and avoided. The extent to which video telehealth is superior to other forms of telecommunication and its impact on management of acutely unwell residents in aged care facilities has not been explored previously. METHODS In this study, video-telehealth consultation was added to an existing program, the Aged Care Emergency (ACE) program, aiming at further reducing Emergency Department (ED) visits and hospital admissions. This controlled pre-post study introduced video-telehealth consultation as an additional component to the ACE program for acutely unwell residents in RACs. Usual practice is for RACs and ACE to liaise via telephone. During the study, when the intervention RACs called the ED advanced practice nurse, video-telehealth supported clinical assessment and management. Five intervention RACs were compared with eight control RACs, all of whom refer to one community hospital in regional New South Wales, Australia. Fourteen months pre-video-telehealth was compared with 14 months post-video-telehealth using generalized linear mixed models for hospital admissions after an ED visit and ED visits. One thousand two hundred seventy-one ED visits occurred over the 28-month study period with 739 subsequent hospital admissions. RESULTS There were no significant differences in hospital admission or ED visits after the introduction of video-telehealth; adjusted incident rate ratios (IRR) were 0.98 (confidence interval (CI) 0.55 to 1.77) and 0.89 (95% CI 0.53 to 1.47) respectively. CONCLUSIONS Video-telehealth did not show any incremental benefit when added to a structured hospital avoidance program with nursing telephone support. TRIAL REGISTRATION The larger Aged Care Emergency evaluation is registered with ANZ Clinical Trials Registry, ACTRN12616000588493.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn Hullick
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia. .,Belmont Hospital, Hunter New England Local Health District, Belmont, Australia. .,Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, Australia.
| | - Jane Conway
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia
| | - Alix Hall
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, Australia
| | - Wendy Murdoch
- Belmont Hospital, Hunter New England Local Health District, Belmont, Australia
| | | | - Jacqueline Hewitt
- Hunter New England Central Coast Primary Health Network, Newcastle West, Australia
| | | | - John Attia
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia.,John Hunter Hospital, Hunter New England Health, Locked Bag 1, HRMC, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2310, Australia
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18
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Hullick C, Conway J, Barker R, Hewitt J, Darcy L, Attia J. Supporting residential aged care through a Community of Practice. Nurs Health Sci 2021; 24:330-340. [PMID: 34939738 DOI: 10.1111/nhs.12917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2021] [Revised: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Transfers to Emergency Departments and hospitalizations are common for older people living in residential aged care who experience acute deterioration. This paper shares reflections from 10 years of work across a region in New South Wales, Australia, to develop a new model of care in141 residential aged care homes. The model successfully reduced Emergency Department transfers and admissions to hospital. Using an exemplar patient case, the paper describes the Aged Care Emergency Program and associated research outputs. An interprofessional, multi-agency Community of Practice supported this work. The authors reflect on the successes and challenges of using a Community of Practice to implement the model of care. We conclude that the Community of Practice, with its iterative evaluation, facilitated change and provided a mechanism for interprofessional practice. Broader systemic change requires clarity in goals of care, shared decision-making, working across sectors, and appropriate resource allocation. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn Hullick
- Hunter New England Local Health District, Lookout Rd, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia.,College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Jane Conway
- College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Roslyn Barker
- Hunter New England Local Health District, Lookout Rd, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Jacqueline Hewitt
- Hunter New England Central Coast Primary Health Network, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Leigh Darcy
- Hunter Primary Care Newcastle NSW 2300, Australia
| | - John Attia
- Hunter New England Local Health District, Lookout Rd, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia.,College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
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