Examining "success" in post-hip fracture care transitions: a strengths-based approach

J Interprof Care. 2012 May;26(3):205-11. doi: 10.3109/13561820.2011.645090. Epub 2012 Jan 17.

Abstract

Transitions between health care settings are a high-risk period for care quality and patient safety (Coleman, 2003; Picker Institute, 1999), particularly for older patients - such as those with hip fracture - who have complex needs and may undergo multiple care transitions. We sought to understand the key elements of "success" in care transition. Using a strengths-based perspective (Rapp, 1998; Saleebey, 2006), we focused on interprofessional health care providers' perspectives of what constitutes a "good" care transition for elderly hip fracture patients. As part of a larger ethnographic field study, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 17 health providers across a number of disciplines employed across the continuum of post-hip fracture management in British Columbia, Canada. We found two hallmarks of "success" in care transitions: a focus on process - information gathering and communication, and a focus on outcomes - autonomy and care pathways. Strategies for promoting and improving success, such as using practitioner-driven ground-up solutions to address challenges in care transitions, are highlighted.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Anthropology, Cultural
  • Communication*
  • Continuity of Patient Care / organization & administration*
  • Continuity of Patient Care / statistics & numerical data
  • Hip Fractures / rehabilitation
  • Hip Fractures / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Interdisciplinary Communication
  • Interprofessional Relations*