Risk Factors Associated with Unplanned Hospitalization Among Long-Term Care Facility Residents: A Retrospective Study...

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Long-term care facilities (LTCFs) house many individuals with chronic diseases requiring ongoing care.
• Unplanned hospitalizations for LTCF residents can lead to decreased mobility, increased infections, complications, and falls, potentially causing severe disability or death.
• Identifying risk factors for unplanned hospitalizations is crucial for improving care quality and resident outcomes globally.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify critical risk factors associated with unplanned hospitalizations among residents of long-term care facilities (LTCFs) in Taiwan.
• To provide insights for enhancing care practices in LTCFs worldwide.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective study utilizing inpatient data from a central Taiwan medical center (2011-2019).
• Propensity score matching was used to compare 1220 LTCF residents with general patients.
• Multiple logistic regression analyses were performed to identify significant risk factors for unplanned hospitalization.

Main Results:

• LTCF residents exhibited a significantly higher risk of unplanned hospitalization compared to general patients (OR = 1.44).
• Key risk factors identified include advanced age (≥85 years), comorbidities (diabetes, renal failure), high fall risk, and being bedridden.
• Presence of a tracheostomy tube also significantly increased hospitalization risk (OR = 1.73).

Conclusions:

• LTCF residents are at an elevated risk for unplanned hospitalizations.
• Specific comorbidities, physical limitations (e.g., being bedridden), and medical devices (e.g., tracheostomy) are significant predictors.
• Findings highlight the necessity for targeted interventions to mitigate these risks and improve care for LTCF residents.