What is the role of healthcare professionals and community services in emergency admissions of people with advanced COPD and lung cancer? A secondary analysis

摘要

Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and lung cancer are often admitted to hospital at the end of life. This study offers insight into the role of community healthcare professionals involved in preventing emergency admissions. Secondary analysis was conducted of data from a qualitative study exploring emergency admissions of patients with advanced COPD and lung cancer. Data was retrieved from twenty eight original interviews, including fifteen healthcare professionals from one district hospital. Data was organised into themes and analysed using a constructivist case study approach. This study investigated the healthcare professional’s roles in the admission process that had not been explored in depth in the primary study.ududUnderstanding the role of healthcare professionals and community services in emergency admissions is complex and influenced by environmental factors. Patients admitted often experienced a change in normal support, gaps in service provision and being left with no alternative than hospital admission.ududAbsence of key healthcare professionals or community support increases the risk of emergency admission.ududThis study highlights the importance of consistency in care organisation within community settings. Strategies need to be implemented to manage patient expectations and promote understanding of community support.