Perceptions of professionals and patients with COVID-19 regarding the transition from hospital to home care
a qualitative study*
Keywords:
COVID-19, Patient Discharge, Transitional Care, Continuity of Patient Care, Patient-Centered CareAbstract
Objective: To understand the perceptions of healthcare professionals and patients with COVID-19 regarding the transition from hospital to home care.
Method: A descriptive and qualitative study was conducted between March 2022 and February 2024 using semi-structured interviews at two time points (hospital and primary care), totaling 43 participants. The results were analyzed using Thematic Content Analysis with the support of IRAMUTEQ® software, adopting the criterion of theoretical saturation.
Results: The majority (83.7%) of participants were women aged 26 to 76 years; 79% were healthcare professionals (average 10 years of experience), and 21% were patients. The analyses revealed failures in communication and counter-referral, the absence of individualized discharge plans, care fragmentation, and insecurity in home-based care management.
Final considerations: The transition of care revealed weaknesses in care and a risk of readmissions, highlighting the importance of effective communication, integration between levels of care, and continuous training to ensure safe and comprehensive care.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Edna Ribeiro de Jesus, Julia Estela Willrich Boell, Marinalda Boneli da Silva, Catiele Raquel Schmidt, Vanessa Piccinin Paz , Elisiane Lorenzini
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