Older people represent about 16% of the population and accounts for more than 22% of Emergency department (ED) presentations. Taking account the size of population, people aged 75 or older have the highest rate of hospital presentations.
Older patients are more likely to present with non-specific symptomatology, be over- or under-investigated, and experience iatrogenic adverse events. It is accepted that special provisions should be in place for the unique care needs of the elderly within the Emergency Department.
The Prince Charles Hospital ED sees the largest number of older people within Queensland. With that, we sought to improve and streamline the care of the elderly within the Emergency department, through to the wards, all the way to the time of discharge and beyond.
Geriatricians, transdisciplinary allied health professionals and senior nurses work jointly to maximize and fast track decision making for older persons in the Emergency Department. Through modified comprehensive geriatric assessments within ED, the FRAIL team provides specialist consultation, coordination and facilitation of care related to older persons with complex needs.
Patients are followed up by the FRAIL team within inpatient wards, their discharge planning commenced within the Emergency department from the assessments already completed. RACF patients have shorter lengths of stay due to the ability of the FRAIL team’s outreach arm to provide follow up post discharge.
Through an individualised, patient centred approach, the FRAIL team can positively influence the experience and outcomes of our most vulnerable patients.