SHM Converge Scientific Abstract ePoster Gallery-What Matters Most During the Transition From Hospital to SNF

Pdf Summary

This qualitative study examined what matters most to older adults during the transition from hospital to skilled nursing facilities (SNFs). Researchers interviewed 16 patients and 4 caregivers and observed care activities across hospital and SNF settings.<br /><br />The study found seven key priorities. Some applied across both settings, while others were specific to the hospital or SNF. The main themes were:<br /><br />- Clear expectation-setting about SNF care and recovery<br />- Understanding differences between hospital and SNF care<br />- Strong connection and enough time with the care team<br />- Good pain and symptom management<br />- Being seen as an individual whose priorities are understood<br />- Being treated with respect and kindness<br />- Support for activities of daily living and independence, such as walking and returning to preferred routines<br /><br />A major finding was that patients often felt they were not fully prepared for what a SNF would be like, or what recovery would involve. They wanted clinicians to explain the transition clearly, communicate often, and recognize that the move from hospital to SNF can feel stressful and unfamiliar. Older adults also valued care that focused not only on medical needs, but on personal goals such as mobility, comfort, dignity, and maintaining identity.<br /><br />Overall, the study suggests that improving hospital-to-SNF transitions requires more than medical discharge planning. Care should align with older adults’ own priorities, including communication, respect, and rehabilitation goals.

Asset Subtitle

James D. Harrison

Meta Tag

Author List Andrew D. Auerbach, Audrey Lyndon, James D. Harrison, Margaret C. Fang, Michi Yukawa, Rebecca L. Sudore, Tasce Bongiovanni

Category Research

Concept Care Transition

Concept Patient Priorities

Concept Communication

Concept Respect

Concept Symptom Management

Distinguished Non-Finalist

Presenter Organization University of California San Francisco

Presenting Author James D. Harrison

Track Transitions of Care

Keywords

older adults

hospital to skilled nursing facility

SNF transition

qualitative study

care priorities

expectation-setting

pain management

patient-centered care

dignity and respect

rehabilitation goals

Care Transition

Patient Priorities

Communication

Respect

Symptom Management