EXAMINING READINESS FOR PATIENTS AND THEIR COMPANIONS TO TRANSFER FROM HOSPITALS TO SKILLED NURSING FACILITIES IN SAUDI ARABIA

Abstract

Abstract Purpose/Aim: This study assessed the readiness of chronically ill patients in Saudi Arabia for transfer from hospitals to skilled nursing facilities (SNFs). It aimed to identify factors that influence this readiness and provide suggestions for making transitions easier. Background: Maintaining chronic patients' ability to transition from hospitals to SNFs is critical for healthcare continuity and quality. However, patients' preparedness for this transition may vary by various factors, including clinical status, caregiver support, and demographics. Conceptual Framework: This study is based on Meleis's Transitional Theory, which highlights the significance of understanding the processes and factors that affect transitions in healthcare environments. This framework is especially pertinent for analyzing the transfer of patients with chronic illnesses from hospitals to SNFs in Saudi Arabia. Methods: A descriptive correlational cross-sectional design was employed. A convenience sample of 123 chronic patients and their companions (families) in hospitals was recruited and enrolled in Saudi Arabia hospitals. After providing informed consent, participants completed surveys that included standardized measures to assess chronic patients' readiness to transition from hospitals to SNFs. The study utilized descriptive and inferential statistical analyses to evaluate variables such as sociodemographic characteristics, clinical profiles, caregiver support, and perceived barriers to transition. Findings: Education, income, chronic illness, self-rated health, and caregiver preparedness significantly predicted readiness to transfer patients from hospitals to SNFs in Saudi Arabia. Education level, income, and self-reported health predicted greater readiness; caregiver involvement positively influenced transition quality. Length of stay, age, and sex made no difference. The findings underscore the importance of interventions to improve caregiver training, financial support, health literacy, and standardizing discharge planning to improve patient transitions. Implications: Policy interventions are needed to help the patient transition from hospital to SNFs in Saudi Arabia. The most common recommendations addressed improving caregiver education, financial support resources, resource allocation using a standardized discharge planning process, and caregiver training programs promoting preparedness. In line with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, these measures are intended to create patient- centered care, create fewer obstacles to readiness, and improve overall healthcare outcomes.