AIM

The aim is to clarify the use of the term continuity in the specific context of acute care hospitalization and discharge.

BACKGROUND

The meaning of "continuity" is often co-mingled with other concepts, specifically coordination and communication. To increase usefulness for contemporary concerns with the hospitalization-postdischarge continuum, continuity of care is examined from the specific context of acute hospitalization and discharge.

DESIGN

Concept analysis.

DATA SOURCES

Medline via Ovid, Cochrane Library, Cinahl, and Google Scholar. Search years encompassed 2001-2016.

REVIEW METHODS

Rodgers evolutionary concept analysis method.

RESULTS

A total of 50 papers were included in this concept analysis. Synthesis of findings from these papers resulted in a model of continuity of care that illustrates the hierarchical and interdependent relationship between time and setting, patient-provider relationships, communication, and coordination in the context of discharge transitions.

CONCLUSION

The continuity model provides a framework to assist in the design of multicomponent, interdisciplinary, integrated interventions that can then be tested for their effect on patient care practices and outcomes.