Trajectory, transition and vulnerability in adult medical-surgical patients: a framework for understanding in-hospital convalescence.
Relatively recent changes in health care have seen shorter hospital stays and a considerable increase in day-only admissions, anticipated to involve 60% of all patients admitted for surgery and/or investigations within the next couple of years. Surprisingly little is known about the experiences of the approximately 40% of patients who will begin to convalesce in hospital following illness, trauma or surgery. Findings from a qualitative study, briefly reported here, identified a sense of vulnerability in transition as a significant discomfort. By examining assumptions underlying the care of patients recovering in hospital, the nexus between system-determined care trajectories transition, and patient vulnerability can be identified and problems suitably addressed.
Walker
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School of Nursing and Community Health, University of Western Sydney.
D001315:Australia; D003266:Continuity of Patient Care; D003289:Convalescence / Q000523:psychology; D006760:Hospitalization; D006801:Humans; D011182:Postoperative Care; D012654:Self-Care Units; D013514:Surgical Procedures, Operative / Q000451:nursing* / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation