Patient needs and their satisfaction in hospital care as viewd and experienced by the patients in the time of the COVID-19 pandemic
Abstract
In the context of an ageing population, problems in care for frail older patients and their specific requirements have increasingly been highlighted. In the COVID-19 pandemic hospitals play even more important role and provide continuum of care also to older persons.
Therefore it is even more important to ensure comprehensive care for older patients, including satisfying all of their needs. Objective: This study's objective is to investigate older adult's experiences and opinions of how their needs are satisfied in hospital care in the time of COVID-19 pandemic.
Method: A qualitative research method was chosen. Data was collected by means of semi-structured interviews.
Results: A total of 12 interviews with patients aged over 80 were evaluated. An analysis was performed and four principal aspects of care for older people were identified: quality of care; satisfying patients' needs; personality of the carers; autonomy and dignity.