Care transition for patients admitted to hospital due to COVID-19 and its relationship with clinical characteristics

Abstract

Objective To analyze care transition (CT) and its relationship with the clinical characteristics of patients admitted to hospital due to COVID-19. Methods This is a cross-sectional study, carried out in a general hospital, with 165 patients admitted to hospital due to COVID-19 and who were discharged home. Participants were those who had been admitted to hospital for at least 24 hours, over 18 years of age, with telephone access after discharge. Those who were discharged by transfer, who died or those without cognitive conditions were excluded. Data collected between March and July 2021, using a sociodemographic and clinical questionnaire as well as Care Transitions Measure-15. Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis was applied. Results The overall mean of Care Transitions Measure-15 was considered satisfactory (71.8±7.45). The Important preferences factor obtained the highest mean (80.5± 9.84) and the Care Plan factor the lowest (57.5± 11.4). Significant statistical differences were found when the CTM-15 factors were associated with the clinical variables: duration of chronic disease (p<0.03); presence of clinical artifact (p<0.040); use of continuous medication (p<0.029). Readmission had a significant difference in the factors Health management preparation (p<0.045), Important preferences (p<0.027) and Care plan (p<0.032). Conclusion Patients admitted to hospital due to COVID-19 assessed the general CT as satisfactory and the clinical variables, length of chronic illness, clinical artifact, continuous medication and readmission interfered in the CT of these patients.