Reasons for readmission to hospital after hip fracture: Implications for occupational therapy

Abstract

Introduction The aim of this study was to determine the rate of readmission to hospital after hip fracture. The relationship between readmission to hospital and a range of social and functional variables, including receiving a home visit by an occupational therapist prior to discharge from hospital, was explored. Method A retrospective cohort study was conducted of 154 patients returning to community living following hip fracture. Multivariate logistic regression identified variables associated with risk of readmission to hospital. Results One in three patients was readmitted to hospital within 12 months after discharge, with 7% readmitted within 30 days. The most common reason for readmission was another fall. A low level of mobility prior to hip fracture was the strongest independent predictor of risk of readmission to hospital. There was no association between receiving a pre-discharge home visit by an occupational therapist and risk of readmission to hospital. Conclusion Rates of readmission to hospital are high after hip fracture, and falls are the single most common reason for readmission. Interventions provided by occupational therapists, including home visits, should emphasise and incorporate evidence-based falls prevention strategies.