This mixed-method study explored the reasons why out-of-hours discharges from the ICU to the ward, and nighttime coverage are associated with poor outcomes. Based on qualitative interviews with patients, family members, and staff involved in the ICU discharge process, this study found that out-of-hours discharges are considered unsafe due to nighttime staffing levels and skill mix. Out-of-hours discharges often occurred prematurely, without adequate handovers, and involved patients who were not physiologically stable, and at risk for clinical deterioration.

… with machine learning–based decision support systems: a systematic review. JAMA Network Open. 2021;4(3):e211276-e. doi: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.1276. …

… avoidability of death after discharge from intensive care: a multi-centre retrospective case record review study. Crit …

This study used hypothetical scenarios to explore factors influencing prescribers’ decision-making on whether to discontinue antibiotics at early review. Prescribers (from acute/general hospitals) were more likely to continue antibiotics when discontinuation would conflict with local guidelines, when systems clearly indicated antibiotics, and when patients had severe frailty or comorbidities.

… to the hospital during weekends compared to weekdays, but a significant proportion of the observed weekend effect was … than health care team staffing explain the weekend effect. A recent PSNet interview discussed the weekend effect in …