Factors Contributing to the Hospitalization of Nursing Home Residents.

Examined clinical and social-structural factors contributing to hospitalization of nursing home residents. Using participant observation and event analysis of acute-illness episodes, concluded that 48.2 percent of nursing home patient (N=215) hospitalizations could have been avoided. Identified insufficient numbers and training of nurses, lack of diagnostic services, and pressure from staff and family to hospitalize as contributing factors. (Author/CM)