Geriatric-based versus general wards for older acute medical patients: a randomized comparison of outcomes and use of resources
Article Abstract:
A randomized trial with 3-month follow-up has been carried out in 190 patients older than 69 randomized to an acute geriatrics-based ward (AGW) and 223 patients randomized to general medical wards (MWs). It was found that a geriatric approach with greater emphasis on early rehabilitation and discharge planning in the AGW shortened the length of hospital stay and may have cut down on the need for long-term institutional living, even though patients in an AGW did not have better medical or functional outcome.
Publication Name: Journal of the American Geriatrics Society
Subject: Seniors
ISSN: 0002-8614
Year: 2000
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The evidence for excellent nursing
Article Abstract:
Focus on intervention practiced by advanced practice nurses in important when considering the McCorkle study in which older patients who went home after cancer surgery received excellent nursing care and it made a difference in how many years they lived. More older patients are being operated on and this should be studied. The intervention group had patients who had later stage cancer. The nurses used standardized protocols. They phoned the patients within 24 hours of discharge and used a standard assessment with management guidelines, measurable instructional content and a schedule for contacts. Similar study is needed in the acute care setting where the dramatic declines in nurse-patient ratio should be reversed. Quality of life must be studied as well as longevity and psychological intervention is likely a factor. Home care must be studied much more carefully.
Publication Name: Journal of the American Geriatrics Society
Subject: Seniors
ISSN: 0002-8614
Year: 2000
User Contributions:
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