Nurses' perspective on transitional care for older person with hip fracture: a qualitative study

Background

The aging process, being associated with a decrease in physical functionality, determines an increased risk of falling and, consequently, a greater risk of associated fractures. Among them, hip fracture often causes functional decline and difficulty returning to the state before the fracture.

Objective

To analyze nurses' perceptions of the transition process of the older person with hip fractures on returning home.

Methods

A descriptive, exploratory study of a qualitative nature was developed, based on two focus groups (FGs) with semi-structured interviews with nurses providing care to patients with hip fractures undergoing surgical treatment, whose activity takes place in a hospital context and care primary healthcare units, belonging to a Hospital in the central region of Portugal. Systematic data analysis and respective inductive work were carried out, with support from software Meetpulp®.

Results

The analysis of the two FGs, with 10 participants, outlines the contours of the problem that influences the personal, organizational and political spheres. Professionals recommend solutions to mitigate obstacles to the transition of care, such as: early involvement and better preparation of family members before discharge, offering greater support to caregivers, improving communication between professionals, creating a telephone support line, highlighting the importance networking and streamlining processes.

Conclusion

Nurses perceive important problems inherent to the transition process of older person with hip fractures, and the resulting impact on family caregivers and health services. The analysis of these aspects can constitute a basis for the reorganization of health services, in search of the best response to these needs.