Elderly patients´ perspectives on treatment, care and rehabilitation after hip fracture: A qualitative systematic review

Abstract BackgroundHip fracture surgery is a distressing and life-changing event for patients. The treatment, care and rehabilitation of hip fracture patients governed by evidence-based recommendations, the patients’ preferences are often not represented. The aim of this systematic review is to identify what elderly hip fracture patients consider important in relation to their fracture.MethodsA qualitative approach was applied to present findings on patient perspectives. Data were extracted from the findings in the Results section of each study, categorized by similarity in meaning by both authors as either health-related factors or healthcare-related experiences. The quality of the presented evidence was evaluated, and all studies were assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) checklist.ResultsSixteen qualitative studies met the inclusion criteria. The health-related factors category included: 1) symptoms and complications, 2) physical health, 3) mental health and 4) social relationships and 5) personal goals. Healthcare-related experiences revolved around: 1) waiting time, 2) information, , 3) participation and respect and 4) discharge.ConclusionsThis systematic review provides an overview of hip fracture patients’ perspectives on important aspects of care, treatment and training during their trajectory, thereby contributing to plan and deliver care based on what matters to patients. .