Pediatricians’ perspectives on introducing transitional care into handover between pediatric intensive care units and general wards

Abstract

Background In contemporary medicine, the transfer of critically ill children from the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) to the general ward is a routine practice. Nevertheless, the lack of a standardized transition process and corresponding transitional care curriculum has led to several adverse outcomes. Despite the availability of a considerable number of studies on transitional care, few qualitative studies have synthesized physicians' perspectives on PICU-to-ward transition to develop a comprehensive transitional care curriculum. The aim of this study is to explore physicians' perceptions and management of the transition of critically ill children from the PICU to the general ward, with the aim of providing an evidence-based curriculum. Methods A qualitative study was conducted between July and August 2022. The study involved semi-structured interviews with 11 participants, and data analysis was carried out using NVivo 12.0 software through thematic analysis method. Results Based on the data analysis, three main themes were identified: recognition of professional roles during transition, difficulties during implementation transitional care and suggestions for improving transitional care. Conclusions The insights of doctors can be valuable in improving transitional care for critically ill children during PICU-to-Ward transition and in developing relevant curricula. It is essential to introduce standardized clinical pathways and strengthen curricula on critical elements, including communication and follow-up.