Scarce scientific data are found to guide inter-hospital transport of critically ill patients. This can cause practice variation. Inappropriate communication can lead to significant patient harm. In this study, the authors analyzed data used by accepting providers during hospital transfer to form a rational protocol for information exchange. Critically ill patients have an increased risk of morbidity and mortality surrounding inter-facility transport.
Risks can be minimized with appropriate planning prior to transfer. Study design: A prospective observational study of the initial physician-patient interactions taking place upon transfer of patients from outside hospitals to the Medical ICU. Study subjects: Any direct admission episode occurring in the medical ICU was included in the study. The study excluded intra-hospital transfers, direct admissions from outpatient clinics, and…
