Improving Transitions in Care for the Child with Medical Complexity Using Betty Neuman's Systems Model

Area of Science:

• Pediatric healthcare
• Nursing science
• Systems theory in healthcare

Background:

• Children with medical complexity represent a growing patient population requiring intensive care services.
• Transfers from intensive care units to general units precede discharge and are associated with acute health declines.
• Existing care models may not adequately address the unique stressors of this transition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the application of Betty Neuman's systems model for stress mitigation during pediatric patient transfers.
• To propose an evidence-based transition bundle of care to prevent health deterioration.
• To enhance patient stability during the critical transfer period.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing Betty Neuman's systems model as a theoretical framework.
• Reviewing evidence for effective transition interventions.
• Developing a proposed bundle of care focused on stress reduction.

Main Results:

• Betty Neuman's model offers a structured approach to identifying and mitigating stressors.
• An evidence-based transition bundle can potentially prevent adverse events during transfers.
• Proactive stress mitigation is key to maintaining patient stability.

Conclusions:

• The transition from intensive care for children with medical complexity poses significant risks.
• Betty Neuman's systems model provides a robust framework for developing preventive care strategies.
• An evidence-based transition bundle is a promising intervention to improve patient outcomes and reduce emergent care needs.