Patient and family perspectives on early discharge and care of the older adult undergoing fractured hip rehabilitation.

PURPOSE

To examine the impact of enhanced early discharge on families experiencing repaired hip fracture in an older adult.

DESIGN

Qualitative.

SAMPLE

Convenience sample of 23 care recipients over the age of 60 years who had experienced a hip fracture and their caregivers.

METHODS

Families were interviewed 4 to 6 weeks postdischarge from the hospital. Prior to the interview a questionnaire designed to measure intra-family strain was mailed to the main caregiver. The resulting narratives were analyzed for recurring themes.

FINDINGS

A high number of clients and their families experienced a high degree of mismatched care, especially in relation to care received by nursing staff. This perception was not influenced greatly by location (i.e., hospital or community) and was exacerbated during periods of transition.

CONCLUSION

Heightened communication involving clients and families, especially during transition from hospital to home, may lessen family/client perceptions of mismatched care.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING RESEARCH

Communication methods, role clarification of the professional nurse, and the ability to provide more holistic care during transition phases of health care are areas that need to be explored and developed.