Understanding Care Transitions After Hospice Discharge
Author Information
Author(s): Hinyard Leslie, Wladkowski Stephanie, Hendricks-Ferguson Verna, Juboori Ruaa Al, Coccia Kathryn, Bennett Antonia, Wallace Cara
Primary Institution: Saint Louis University
Hypothesis
The study aims to explore the relationship between the Care Transition Measure (CTM-15) and the Patient-Perceived Continuity of Care among patients and caregivers following hospice discharge.
Conclusion
The study found that as relational continuity increases, so does the positive perspective of transition quality among patients discharged from hospice.
Supporting Evidence
- Patients reported feelings of grief and abandonment after hospice discharge.
- 40% of patients die within 6 months of discharge from hospice.
- The CTM-15 was modified to focus on hospice care instead of hospital care.
- Positive correlations were found between the CTM-15 and relational continuity subscales.
Takeaway
When patients leave hospice care, how well they feel supported can really affect how they cope, and this study shows that better support leads to better feelings about the transition.
Methodology
The study modified the CTM-15 to focus on hospice discharge and included relational continuity questions from another measure, surveying patients or their caregivers.
Potential Biases
Potential bias may arise from self-reported data from patients and caregivers.
Limitations
The study may not generalize to all hospice patients as it primarily involved a specific demographic.
Participant Demographics
Participants were primarily female (75%) and white (78%), with a mean age of 84 and just over half living at home (54%).
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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