Transitions to Home Mechanical Ventilation: Experiences of Canadians

What is it about?

This study explores the experiences of ventilator-assisted individuals as they transition from a hospital setting to a home setting. This qualitative study sought to elucidate issues associated with the transition to home mechanical ventilation including barriers as well as facilitators needed for the transition to home, based on the perspective of Canadian ventilator-assisted individuals and their family caregivers.

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Photo by CDC on Unsplash

Photo by CDC on Unsplash

Why is it important?

Our findings show that formal teaching of knowledge and skills relevant to home mechanical ventilation in the hospital setting is known to have an immediate positive impact on the overall transition. Based on the participants' perspectives, we also found that transition to home-mechanical ventilation was a complex and demanding process due to certain barriers. These barriers included conflict with health professionals, limited access to information, and lack of skilled personal support workers. We were also able to receive participant recommendations in order to improve transitional care.