After Hip Fracture Repair: Care Transitions and Problems

​In a study of 21 older adults who had sustained a hip fracture, the participants experienced a median of four transitions in the year after hip fracture repair, according to an article in the September 2013 Journal of Gerontological Nursing. Chart review and interviews were used to collect data. Three general patterns emerged; ultimately, 85% of older adults returned to their prefracture residence. Within each pattern, the median number of transitions was identified; transitions included transfers to other healthcare settings and changes in services (e.g., home healthcare). The most common pattern was home to hospital to skilled nursing facility (52%). Participants in this group experienced a median of four transitions. Several received nursing home care that contravened hospital transfer orders. The second pattern was home to hospital to inpatient rehabilitation facility (38%).