Readmission following hypoxic ischemic brain injury: a population-based cohort study

Background: Readmission to acute care is common and is associated with indicators of suboptimal care and health system inefficiencies. The objective of this study was to identify independent determinants of readmission following survival of hypoxic ischemic brain injury.

Methods: We conducted a population-based retrospective cohort study using Ontario’s administrative health data. Survivors of hypoxic ischemic brain injury aged 20 years or more discharged from acute care between fiscal years 2002/03 and 2010/11 were included. Multivariable negative binomial regression was used to identify independent determinants of both number of readmissions and cumulative duration of hospital stay(s) within 1 year after the index discharge.

Results: Of the 593 patients with hypoxic ischemic brain injury, 233 (39.3%) were readmitted within 1 year of the index acute care discharge. The number of readmissions was associated with age (35–49 yr v. 65–79 yr: rate ratio [RR] 0.57, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.38–0.85; ≥ 80 yr v. 65–79 yr: RR 0.58, 95% CI 0.34–0.97) and higher comorbidity score (Johns Hopkins Aggregated Diagnosis Groups score > 30 v. < 10: RR 1.60, 95% CI 1.11–2.31). Cumulative readmission stay was associated with increased index acute care length of stay (31–90 d v. ≥ 90 d: RR 4.17, 95% CI 1.38–12.64), prior use of health care services (minimal v. very high: RR 0.15, 95% CI 0.05–0.49) and discharge disposition (home v. continuing/long-term care: RR 0.44, 95% CI 0.21–0.91).

Interpretation: The findings indicate a high readmission rate in the first year after the index acute care admission for survivors of hypoxic ischemic brain injury, reflecting care gaps and system inefficiencies. This suggests that bolstered discharge and home care planning and support are needed to address the specific needs of those with hypoxic ischemic brain injury.