Morbidity and Mortality Following Relocation of Highly Dependent Long-Term Care Residents A Retrospective Analytical Study

In recent years, 1,200 long-term care facility (LTCF) beds have been closed in Ireland, resulting in residents being transferred between facilities. The current study examined morbidity and mortality in residents relocated between LTCFs. The outcomes were studied for residents who transferred between LTCFs compared to residents who did not move (i.e., controls). A retrospective analysis was performed recording demographic data and markers of function and frailty. As a measure of morbidity, new antidepressant medication prescriptions and antibiotic drug use were examined. Mortality at 30 and 90 days was recorded. In total, 76 transferred residents and 62 control residents were studied. Both groups were highly dependent and had a high 90-day mortality rate (18.4% versus 17.7%). Higher prescription rates of antibiotic drugs occurred among relocated residents prior to transfer (59.2% versus 27.4%, p = 0.017). Residents who transferred had a greater number of new antidepressant medication prescriptions than control residents (19.7% versus 8.1%, p = 0.05). Proper planning and vigilance by staff are essential to minimize any distress caused to residents during times of relocation.