Delphi study to derive expert consensus on a set of criteria to evaluate discharge readiness for adult ICU patients to be discharged to a general ward-European perspective.

ABSTRACT:

Background/purpose

Discharge decisions in Intensive Care Unit (ICU) patients are frequently taken under pressure to free up ICU beds. In the absence of established guidelines, the evaluation of discharge readiness commonly underlies subjective judgements. The challenge is to come to the right decision at the right time for the right patient. A premature care transition puts patients at risk of readmission to the ICU. Delayed discharge is a waste of resources and may result in over-treatment and suboptimal patient flow. More objective decision support is required to assess the individual patient's discharge readiness but also the current care capabilities of the receiving unit.

Methods

In a modified online Delphi process, an international panel of 27 intensive care experts re

SUBMITTER: Hiller M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9190161 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature