Patients With Experience of Hospitalization for Acute Severe Ulcerative Colitis Prefer Inpatient to Home-Based Care.

Abstract

Acute severe ulcerative colitis (ASUC) comprises a severe manifestation of inflammatory bowel disease that requires close monitoring and aggressive treatment. This study aimed to evaluate the experience of patients admitted to a single tertiary service with ASUC, focusing on perception of the received therapy and preferences regarding location of care. Patients admitted with ASUC were invited to complete a short online survey. Data regarding disease characteristics, management, and outcomes were obtained through retrospective chart review. Of the 24 patients meeting Truelove and Witt's criteria for ASUC, 20 (74.07%, median age 34 [interquartile range 29-48] years, 13 [65%] female) responded. The majority of study participants reported receiving excellent overall inpatient care (15 out of 20, 75%), a strong agreement that they felt safe as an inpatient (17 out of 20, 85%) and felt their individual needs were met and questions were answered during hospitalization (15 out of 20, 75%). A preference toward inpatient management rather than an ambulatory setting was noted (14 out of 20, 70%). In conclusion, patients admitted with ASUC experienced a high degree of satisfaction with their care, with a preference toward inpatient care.