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Patients with comorbidities: perceptions of acute care services
1School of Postgraduate Nursing, University of Melbourne, Carlton, Victoria, Australia. afw@unimelb.edu.au
Journal of Advanced Nursing
|March 20, 2004
Summary
Patients with multiple chronic illnesses (comorbidities) experienced poor continuity of care during acute hospital stays. Their experiences highlight the need for better coordinated care to address ongoing health needs post-discharge.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Health Services Research
- Nursing
Background:
- Aging populations and improved lifestyles increase the prevalence of chronic illnesses.
- Many individuals develop multiple chronic conditions (comorbidities).
- Acute hospital care is often required for exacerbations superimposed on chronic conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore patient perceptions of quality of care.
- Focus on patients with comorbidities during acute hospital admissions.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative descriptive study using Colaizzi's phenomenological method.
- Semi-structured interviews with 12 patients post-discharge.
- Interviews conducted within 14 days of hospital discharge.
Main Results:
- Key themes identified: poor continuity of care for comorbidities, perceived inevitability of adverse events during acute care, and persistence of chronic conditions post-discharge.
- Comorbidities and treatments significantly impacted acute care experiences and recovery.
- Medicalized views of comorbidity did not fully address patient healthcare needs.
Conclusions:
- Findings underscore the need for comprehensive and coordinated care approaches for patients with comorbidities.
- Informs nursing knowledge regarding the experiences of patients with multiple chronic conditions in acute care settings.