Understanding Patients' Experiences When Transferring from ICU to General Ward
Author Information
Author(s): Kate Field, Suman Prinjha, Kathy Rowan
Primary Institution: Department of Primary Health, University of Oxford
Hypothesis
What factors contribute to relocation stress experienced by patients transferring from an ICU to a general ward?
Conclusion
Patients experience relocation stress due to a combination of inadequate care and environmental factors on the general ward.
Supporting Evidence
- Patients reported feeling neglected and anxious due to inadequate care on the general ward.
- Many patients experienced distress from a lack of communication and support after leaving the ICU.
- Respondents highlighted the difference in care levels between ICU and general wards as a source of stress.
- Patients expressed a need for better training for ward staff to understand their specific needs post-ICU.
Takeaway
When patients move from the ICU to a regular hospital ward, they can feel very stressed and anxious because they don't get the same level of care and support.
Methodology
Qualitative thematic analysis of in-depth narrative interviews with former ICU patients.
Potential Biases
Potential recall bias as participants were interviewed months or years after their ICU experience.
Limitations
The study lacks independent verification of the facilities and care provided in the hospitals, and participants may have recall bias.
Participant Demographics
Participants included a diverse range of former ICU patients from various backgrounds across the UK.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website