155 The Development of a National Transfer Document for Older Persons, when Transferring Between Residential and Acute Care Settings (Age and Ageing)

AbstractBackgroundThe transition of older persons between care settings is recognised as a particularly critical and vulnerable period (Renom-Guiteras et al. 2014). Appropriate documentation and processes are key in assisting the provision of quality, safe, person-centred care when transferring older persons from residential to acute care settings. This paper reports on the design phase of a national transfer document for older persons. The objective was to inform the development of a draft national transfer document.MethodsDevelopment consisted of two phases 1) an integrative review and 2) focus group interviews with stakeholders. The review was guided by Whittemore and Knafl`s (2005) integrative review framework. Data from studies using both quantitative and qualitative methodologies were extracted and thematically analysed. Using a qualitative descriptive approach, focus group interviews (n=8) were conducted with a convenience sample of key stakeholders (n=68) to establish their perspectives regarding transfer documents. Data were analysed using content analysis. Results from both phases were integrated to guide the development of the draft document. A multidisciplinary panel of experts in older persons care, reviewed and provided feedback on the draft transfer document.ResultsWithin the review, thirty identified papers focused on transfer documentation between residential and acute care. Results indicated that using a standardised document can potentiate the delivery and acceptance of relevant person-centred information between all parties when transferring an older person between residential and acute care settings. Qualitative interview findings highlighted important aspects for consideration regarding the layout, content and format of future transfer documentation. Following collaboration with the expert panel the transfer document was developed for piloting.ConclusionConsistency and clarity of information is key for a successful transfer of older persons from residential to acute settings. Information needs to be evidence-based, current, and subject to response and change in accordance with best available international practice.