title: Nursing home nurses' perceptions of emergency transfers from nursing homes to hospital: A review of qualitative studies using systematic methods.
abstract: The aim is to describe nursing home nurses' perceptions around emergency transfers to hospital. Transfers are costly and traumatic for residents, and efforts are underway to avoid hospitalization. Nurses play a key role in transfers, yet their views are underreported. A systematic review of qualitative studies was undertaken, guided by Joanna Briggs Institute methods. From seven reviewed studies, it was clear nursing home nurses are challenged by the complexity of the transfer process and understand their need for appropriate clinical knowledge, skills and resources. Communication is important, yet nurses often use persuasive and targeted communication. Ambiguity, strained relationships and negative perceptions of residents' experiences around hospitalization contribute to conflict and uncertainty. Nurses are more confident when there is a plan. Transferring a resident is a complex process and special skills, knowledge and resources are required, but may be lacking. Efforts to formalize the transfer process and improve communication and collaboration amongst all stakeholders is needed and would be well received.
authors.affiliation: Central Queensland University, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Bruce Highway Bldg 18, Rockhampton, QLD 4702, Australia. Electronic address: b.oneill2@cqu.edu.au.
authors.forename: Barbara
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: O'Neill
authors.affiliation: Central Queensland University, School of Human Health and Social Sciences, Bruce Highway Bldg 32, Rockhampton, QLD 4702, Australia.
authors.forename: Lynne
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Parkinson
authors.affiliation: Central Queensland University, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Bruce Highway Bldg 18, Rockhampton, QLD 4702, Australia.
authors.forename: Trudy
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Dwyer
authors.affiliation: Central Queensland University, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Bruce Highway Bldg 18, Rockhampton, QLD 4702, Australia.
authors.forename: Kerry
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Reid-Searl
mesh_terms: D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D003142:Communication; D004636:Emergency Service, Hospital; D005851:Geriatric Nursing; D006801:Humans; D009735:Nursing Homes; D009740:Nursing Staff / Q000523:psychology*; D010360:Patient Transfer; D036301:Qualitative Research
keywords: Geriatric nursing; Health knowledge, attitudes, practice; Homes for the aged; Hospital emergency service; Nurses; Nursing homes; Nursing personnel; Nursing staff; Preventable hospitalizations; Transfers, hospital avoidance