In safe hands: Patients' experiences of intrahospital transport during intensive care.

OBJECTIVES

Intrahospital transports are associated with complications and adverse events in intensive care patients. Yet, little is known about how patients' percive these tranfers. Thus, this study aimed to explore patients' experiences of the intrahospital transport process.

RESEARCH DESIGN

An exploratory qualitative study compromising interviews with twelve patients. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.

SETTING

Two intensive care units in a university hospital setting.

MAIN OUTCOME

An understanding of patients' experiences of the intrahospital transport process.

FINDINGS

The main finding was patients' description of "being in safe hands" during the transport. Patients' experience of transports as feasible and safe was reflected in the first main theme, "feeling prepared and safeguarded". The second theme, "being on the move", described patients' perceptions of the transport; although they were aware of movement, the transport was viewed as a minor event during their stay. The third theme, "entrusting myself to others", revealed how patients handed over control and decision making to the staff, confident that they would look after their best interest.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients perceived intrahospital transports as an acceptable and safe process. Findings suggest that patients' experience could be improved by being provided with accurate and timely information and preparedness for transport-related events.