Communication between residential aged care facilities and the emergency department: a review of the literature

Background: Western countries have encountered an increase in elderly patients transferred from residential aged care facilities to emergency departments. This patient cohort frequently experiences impaired physical and cognitive function. Emergency department staff require important clinical and personal patient information to provide quality care. International studies show that documentation and handover deficiencies are common. Objective: The purpose of this literature review was to explore transitional communication practices, and to consider the specific patient information deemed essential for the management of residents in the emergency department.