The Attend-PE model: A feasibility study of a structured follow-up care model for patients with pulmonary embolism
Annesofie Løvdahl Hansen a), Anette Arbjerg Højen b), Stine Foged Lindegaard b), Erik Lerkevang Grove c)d), Christina Jakobsen e), Nanna Rolving a)f)
a – Department of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
b – Danish Center for Health Services Research, Aalborg University Hospital and Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
c – Department of Cardiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
d – Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
e – Department of Cardiology, North Denmark Regional Hospital, Hjørring, Denmark
f – Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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.