The effect of transfer from a palliative care unit to nursing homes--are patients' and relatives' needs met?

The constant demand on hospice inpatient services has led to an increasing use of nursing home beds for patients requiring longer-term nursing care, once their symptoms have been controlled and if care at home is feasible. The effect of such a transfer on the patient has not previously been examined. The results of this study suggest that the transfer of a patient from a palliative care unit to a nursing home may lead to a shortfall in meeting the needs of patients and relatives. Strategies that might improve this practice in the current social services climate are suggested.