Trajectory, transition and vulnerability in adult medical-surgical patients: A framework for understanding in-hospital convalescence
Annette Walker
School of Health and Nursing, University of Western Sydney, Parramatta Campus, NSW
PP: 206 - 216
Abstract
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.
Keywords
trajectory; transition; vulnerability; medical-surgical patients; convalescence
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