Transition of patients from intensive care unit: A concept analysis

Background Patient transition in the health care system is a complex process with several potential challenges including instability and unanticipated changes which usually disturb normal life. Evidence shows that there is a need for greater clarity regarding the concept of patient transition from ICU. Objective The present study was conducted to clarify the core elements of patient transition from ICU, focusing on healthcare professionals. Methods The Walker and Avant model was used to provide a comprehensive definition of transition. The literature was reviewed from 2000 until 2020 in different databases with mesh extracted keywords of transition, patient transfer, critical care, ICU, transition care, and transition process. Results Transition is a complex, multifaceted concept with the following attributes: critical points and events, disturb normal life, the passage of change, instability and un-anticipated changes, multiple needs, multiple factors, collaborative, involving the patient, family/caregivers, multidisciplinary healthcare team, care and service coordination, awareness, engagement, and adaptation. The patient's responses to transition were different and depend on the patient's condition or environmental factors which lead to the development of confidence, adaptation, recovery from critical illness, and return to normal life or disability and other complications. Conclusion The patient transition from ICU is a complex process, collaborative, patient-centered phenomena. Our conceptual definition can assist healthcare providers, organizational leaders, and policymakers to design and implement effective transition care and guideline. Also, the result of this study provides a definition of patient transition from ICU that can be relevant and useful for clinical and practical research.