Key stakeholders' perspectives on the development of a national transfer document, for older persons, when transferring between the residential and acute care settings: A qualitative descriptive study

Pauline O'Reilly, Brid O'Brien, Margaret M. Graham, Jill Murphy, Louise Barry, Owen Doody, Anne Fahy, Carmel Hoey, Michelle Kiely, Deirdre Lang, Pauline Meskell, Jane O'Doherty, Jonathon O'Keefe, Dympna Tuohy, Alice Coffey

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Aims and objectives: This study has aimed to examine key stakeholders' perspectives, views and experiences regarding transfer documents, used when an older person is being transferred from a residential to an acute care setting. The objective of the study was to inform, in part, the development of an effective national transfer document. Background: For the effective and safe transfer of older persons from residential to acute care settings, it is important to ensure that the transfer document encapsulates relevant, current and person-centred information to ensure a smooth, quality and safe transition. Evidence highlights that, where documentation has lacked vital and relevant information, the older persons experience negative impacts during the transfer process. Design: A qualitative descriptive study was conducted, following the COREQ checklist, to establish participants' perspectives, views and experiences of using transfer documents. Methods: Focus group interviews (n = 8) were conducted with a convenience sample of key stakeholders (n = 68) in an Irish setting. The data were analysed using content analysis. Results: The findings have highlighted the important aspects for consideration in the development of future transfer documentation. The three broad categories, used to present the data findings, are (a) existing transfer documentation; (b) design framework; and (c) essentials of care. Conclusions: The transfer document of the future is required to be concise, regularly reviewed and with a user-friendly colour-coded design. Essential and current information, with an emphasis on person centeredness, must be in the first page, with more detailed supporting information in the subsequent sections.

Original languageEnglish
Article numbere12254
Pages (from-to)-
JournalInternational Journal of Older People Nursing
Volume14
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Dec 2019

Keywords

  • emergency department
  • essential care
  • evidence-based
  • older person
  • person-centred care
  • residential care
  • transfer document

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