Factors influencing hospital-to-home transitions in patients with traumatic brain injury: a meta-synthesis.

PURPOSE: This qualitative meta-synthesis aimed to identify facilitators and barriers to the transition of care from hospital to home in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI).

METHODS

Four electronic databases were systematically searched for qualitative research published from inception to January 2025 that explored the experiences, barriers, and facilitators of transitioning patients with traumatic brain injury from healthcare facilities to home. Papers that met the inclusion criteria were appraised using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme tool, and a thematic synthesis was conducted according to the guidelines of Thomas and Harden (2008).

RESULTS

Of the 769 papers retrieved, 12 met the inclusion and quality criteria. The synthesis identified six themes (1): personal capacity (2), family support (3), community support (4), personal barriers (5), unsupportive healthcare system, and (6) community-related barriers.

CONCLUSIONS

This study outlines the key components of effective transitional care, emphasizing that robust family support, access to community-based resources, and strengthening individual capacities are crucial in ensuring a successful transition. Conversely, barriers such as psychological and physical impairments, insufficient education for patients and caregivers, and the absence of structured follow-up programs impede this process. These findings provide a foundation for developing targeted interventions to enhance continuity of care and optimize rehabilitation outcomes.

UNLABELLED: PROSPERO registration ID: CRD420251084100.