Caring for critically ill patients during interhospital transfers: A qualitative study

Area of Science:

• Critical Care Nursing
• Patient Transfer Safety
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic increased interhospital transfers for patients with artificial airways.
• These transfers pose significant risks and challenges for healthcare providers.
• Understanding nurses' experiences is vital for improving transfer protocols.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore critical care nurses' experiences with interhospital transfers of critically ill patients requiring artificial airways.
• To identify challenges and facilitators in managing these complex patient transports.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative, cross-sectional study was conducted in spring 2020.
• Seven critical care nurses from two hospitals participated.
• Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using inductive qualitative content analysis.

Main Results:

• A central theme emerged: "Preserving the safety in an unknown environment."
• Sub-themes included the need for adequate preparation, feelings of abandonment and responsibility, and challenges in unfamiliar settings.
• Nurses perceived transfers as complex and high-risk.

Conclusions:

• Interhospital transfers of critically ill patients with artificial airways are complex and risky.
• Comprehensive planning, clear communication, and effective teamwork are essential for preventing adverse events.
• Standardized checklists are recommended to mitigate human and system errors during transfers.