The Attend-PE model: A feasibility study of a structured follow-up care model for patients with pulmonary embolism

Thromb Res. 2024 Oct:242:109133. doi: 10.1016/j.thromres.2024.109133. Epub 2024 Aug 24.

Abstract

Background: Pulmonary embolism may have both physical and psychological consequences for the affected person. Guidelines recommend structured follow-up care, yet this is still not widely practised. Therefore, a national research project was initiated in Denmark in 2021, with the aim of developing, testing, implementing, and evaluating a structured post-pulmonary embolism follow-up care model, 'Attend-PE'. The objective of this feasibility study was to examine the fidelity, acceptability, and appropriateness of the Attend-PE model in a Danish hospital setting.

Methods: This feasibility study was conducted in two Danish hospitals, using a prospective study design with six months' follow-up. The fidelity, acceptability, and appropriateness of the Attend-PE model's components were evaluated using surveys, registrations sheets, and interviews with two physicians, three nurses, and 29 patients. Qualitative data were analysed using a deductive content analysis, while quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics.

Results: Fidelity with the Attend-PE model was good, with a high participation rate of patients in all components of the model. Acceptability was likewise good, as both patients and health care professionals expressed a high level of satisfaction with the model. The health care professionals considered the model to be relevant and suitable in a Danish hospital setting, confirming appropriateness of the model.

Conclusion: This study showed that the Attend-PE model for patients with pulmonary embolism is feasible and acceptable in a Danish hospital setting.

Keywords: Aftercare; Feasibility studies; Nurses; Practice patterns; Pulmonary embolism; Venous thromboembolism.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Denmark
  • Feasibility Studies*
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Prospective Studies
  • Pulmonary Embolism* / therapy