Evaluation Of The Safety Status Of Intra-Hospital Transfer Of Critically Ill Patients

Abstract

Background: One of the major activities in the health care process is the transport of patients. Much needed attention has been directed to the transfer of those suffering from actual or potentially life-threatening problems. The transport process requires a lot of assessment and preparation of the patient, staff, and equipment that should be made prior, during, and after transport. Critically sick patients are frequently transported throughout the hospital without previous planning. Critically ill patients often require intra-hospital transfer (IHT) for diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. However, this process carries potential risks and c[1]an harm the patient’s safety. This study aims: to assess the safety of IHT for critically ill patients by gathering responses from emergency and intensive care unit (ICU) nurses. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in KSA from January to June 2022. The study involved 288 emergency and ICU nurses. The data were collected through a paper-based form, which included demographic and work-related characteristics and an IHT safety scale. Results: The mean score of IHT was 75.2±15.53. The results of multiple regression analysis showed that work experience (B=0.291, p=0.011), perception of IHT safety (B=0.196, p=0.003), education level (B=−0.123, p=0.038) and equipment checker (B=−0.121, p=0.045), variables were the predictors of IHT safety. Conclusion: The study found that the safety level during the IHT was low. Hospitals aim to create a safe environment that minimizes the risks associated with IHT. Therefore, they must identify potential risks during the transfer process and take necessary measures to mitigate them. Practical strategies that can be employed include using experienced nursing staff, conducting equipment checks, ensuring a complete understanding of the tools and technologies involved in the transfer process, and increasing awareness of IHT safety.