Key stakeholders' perspectives on the development of a national transfer document, for older persons, when transferring between the residential and acute care settings: A qualitative descriptive study

Abstract

Aims and objectives This study has aimed to examine key stakeholders' perspectives, views and experiences regarding transfer documents, used when an older person is being transferred from a residential to an acute care setting. The objective of the study was to inform, in part, the development of an effective national transfer document. Background For the effective and safe transfer of older persons from residential to acute care settings, it is important to ensure that the transfer document encapsulates relevant, current and person‐centred information to ensure a smooth, quality and safe transition. Evidence highlights that, where documentation has lacked vital and relevant information, the older persons experience negative impacts during the transfer process. Design A qualitative descriptive study was conducted, following the COREQ checklist, to establish participants' perspectives, views and experiences of using transfer documents. Methods Focus group interviews (n = 8) were conducted with a convenience sample of key stakeholders (n = 68) in an Irish setting. The data were analysed using content analysis. Results The findings have highlighted the important aspects for consideration in the development of future transfer documentation. The three broad categories, used to present the data findings, are (a) existing transfer documentation; (b) design framework; and (c) essentials of care. Conclusions The transfer document of the future is required to be concise, regularly reviewed and with a user‐friendly colour‐coded design. Essential and current information, with an emphasis on person centeredness, must be in the first page, with more detailed supporting information in the subsequent sections.

Towards the development of a national patient transfer document between residential and acute care—A pilot study

“…This study highlights the importance of developing a transfer document, which is both ‘user‐friendly and comprehensive’. Similar to findings by O'Reilly et al, ( 2019 ), participants of this pilot study were interested in using a transfer document, which provides clear, concise and person‐centred information. The findings emphasised the need for a transfer document, which simultaneously identifies the patient's specific nursing and medical needs and provides person‐centred knowledge and understanding of the patient's specific individual needs.…”

“…This study highlights the importance of developing a transfer document, which is both 'user-friendly and comprehensive'. Similar to findings by O'Reilly et al, (2019), participants of this pilot study were interested in using a transfer document, which provides clear, concise and person-centred information.…”

“…The funded project aimed to improve the quality and standardisation of transfer documentation for the older person between a residential and an acute care setting (Coffey et al, 2019 ). Informed by evidence from a literature review, a qualitative study with stakeholders (O'Reilly et al, 2019 ), consultation with a multidisciplinary expert advisory group 1 (advisory group) and an expert in person‐centred care, the components and format of a transfer document were identified and developed. It consisted of two sections: one contained biographical and essential medical information, and the other profiled the person's personal preferences and usual health status.…”