Pub Date : 2024-09-30DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afae178.269
Anna Healy, Siobhan Ryan, Linda Brewer
Background Incontinence is a common and troublesome feature of frailty (NCPOP 2012), routinely examined in a comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA). It can impact on life quality, mobility, falls and overall care needs. Patients often develop incontinence during hospital admission and staff knowledge of continence status (CS) and efforts to drive improvements are often poor. We sought to explore these issues on our wards. Methods We conducted a point prevalence study, reviewed medical charts and interviewed ward nurses on three specialist geriatric wards. Patients >65y over a six-week period were included. We developed a proforma and recorded current and pre-admission CS, and use of continence wear. Nursing staff awareness of CS was also explored. Results 104 patients (57% female, mean age 81y) were included. Overall, 34 (32.7%) had urinary incontinence (UI), of whom 22 (64%) developed new UI since admission. 27 (25.7%) patients had a urinary catheter inserted, most (23; 85%) for short-term use. Almost half (46; 44.2%) had faecal incontinence (FI), of which 74% was new FI since admission. Overall, 19 patients (18%) were doubly incontinent. Continence wear was also reviewed; 57 (54%) were in full wrap-around continence wear, 28 (27%) in pull-ups. 26 (25%) wore continence wear despite being continent. Only 28 (27%) had a call bell within reach. Nursing awareness was examined, 85 nurses (81.7%) were aware of their patient’s CS, and 15 (14.4%) were partially aware. In all cases, nursing handover documents were consulted. For 35 patients, (33%) CS impacted on their discharge plan. Conclusion Rates of UI and FI were high in our cohort and further increased during hospital admission. Staff knowledge was satisfactory but suboptimal efforts were made to improve CS. Consequently, an education session was delivered to clinical staff to embed continence assessment into CGA. Additionally, continence advocates have been appointed to each ward.
{"title":"A Review of Patient Continence and Related Staff Knowledge on Specialist Geriatric Wards","authors":"Anna Healy, Siobhan Ryan, Linda Brewer","doi":"10.1093/ageing/afae178.269","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1093/ageing/afae178.269","url":null,"abstract":"Background Incontinence is a common and troublesome feature of frailty (NCPOP 2012), routinely examined in a comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA). It can impact on life quality, mobility, falls and overall care needs. Patients often develop incontinence during hospital admission and staff knowledge of continence status (CS) and efforts to drive improvements are often poor. We sought to explore these issues on our wards. Methods We conducted a point prevalence study, reviewed medical charts and interviewed ward nurses on three specialist geriatric wards. Patients >65y over a six-week period were included. We developed a proforma and recorded current and pre-admission CS, and use of continence wear. Nursing staff awareness of CS was also explored. Results 104 patients (57% female, mean age 81y) were included. Overall, 34 (32.7%) had urinary incontinence (UI), of whom 22 (64%) developed new UI since admission. 27 (25.7%) patients had a urinary catheter inserted, most (23; 85%) for short-term use. Almost half (46; 44.2%) had faecal incontinence (FI), of which 74% was new FI since admission. Overall, 19 patients (18%) were doubly incontinent. Continence wear was also reviewed; 57 (54%) were in full wrap-around continence wear, 28 (27%) in pull-ups. 26 (25%) wore continence wear despite being continent. Only 28 (27%) had a call bell within reach. Nursing awareness was examined, 85 nurses (81.7%) were aware of their patient’s CS, and 15 (14.4%) were partially aware. In all cases, nursing handover documents were consulted. For 35 patients, (33%) CS impacted on their discharge plan. Conclusion Rates of UI and FI were high in our cohort and further increased during hospital admission. Staff knowledge was satisfactory but suboptimal efforts were made to improve CS. Consequently, an education session was delivered to clinical staff to embed continence assessment into CGA. Additionally, continence advocates have been appointed to each ward.","PeriodicalId":7682,"journal":{"name":"Age and ageing","volume":"22 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":6.7,"publicationDate":"2024-09-30","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142360134","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2024-09-30DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afae178.270
Clodagh McDermott, Allie Seminer, Catriona Reddin, Finn Krewer, Martin O'Donnell
Background Stroke is the 2nd leading cause of death worldwide. Stroke is diagnosed by the combination of clinical symptoms and signs, and neuroimaging. Clinical features may differ between the subtypes of ischaemic and haemorrhagic stroke. We investigated whether there are differences in clinical presentation of acute ischaemic and haemorrhagic stroke. Methods We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis according to the PRISMA statement. Inclusion criteria were (1) cohort, cross-sectional, case-control, randomised controlled trial, systematic review or meta-analysis; (2) consecutive admissions of adult individuals with an acute ischaemic or haemorrhagic stroke, confirmed by neuroimaging and (3) comparisons possible between stroke subtypes in acute stroke symptom(s). A random-effects model was used for our analyses. Results We included 58 studies (n=12,878,716; ischaemic stroke=10,814,293; haemorrhagic stroke=2,064,423). The mean age of participants was 65.54+13.84 with 44.98% women. In haemorrhagic stroke, altered GCS occurred more frequently than in ischaemic stroke (OR, 3.93 [95% CI, 2.81–5.49]; AIS/ICH=382,110/59,877, 40 studies), as did headache (OR, 3.34 [95% CI, 2.68–4.17]; AIS/ICH=22,413/6,018; 43 studies), seizure (OR, 2.42 [95% CI, 1.62–3.65]; AIS/ICH=10,427,262/2,004,681; 20 studies), vomiting (OR, 3.82 [95% CI, 2.62–5.57]; AIS/ICH=7,736/3,225; 25 studies), neck stiffness (OR, 5.21 [95% CI, 2.22–12.21]; AIS/ICH=511/168; 3 studies), syncope (OR, 2.95 [95% CI, 2.12–4.12]; AIS/ICH=2,427/494; 6 studies) and dizziness (OR, 1.33 [95% CI, 1.05–1.68]; AIS/ICH=4,730/1,213; 11 studies). Hemiplegia occurred more frequently in ischaemic stroke (OR, 0.67 [95% CI, 0.49–0.91]; AIS/ICH=15,857/4,338; 31 studies) than haemorrhagic stroke, as did ataxia (OR, 0.73 [95% CI, 0.61–0.86]; AIS/ICH=7,741/2,244; 8 studies) and morning onset (OR, 0.41 [95% CI, 0.32– 0.54]; AIS/ICH=2,721/495; 4 studies). Conclusion This review focused on synthesizing existing evidence on differences in clinical presentation between ischaemic and haemorrhagic stroke. It suggests there are substantive differences in stroke symptoms between these subtypes. These results may provide insights into future directions for clinical prediction tool development.
{"title":"Differences in Presentation of Ischaemic and Haemorrhagic Stroke: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis","authors":"Clodagh McDermott, Allie Seminer, Catriona Reddin, Finn Krewer, Martin O'Donnell","doi":"10.1093/ageing/afae178.270","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1093/ageing/afae178.270","url":null,"abstract":"Background Stroke is the 2nd leading cause of death worldwide. Stroke is diagnosed by the combination of clinical symptoms and signs, and neuroimaging. Clinical features may differ between the subtypes of ischaemic and haemorrhagic stroke. We investigated whether there are differences in clinical presentation of acute ischaemic and haemorrhagic stroke. Methods We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis according to the PRISMA statement. Inclusion criteria were (1) cohort, cross-sectional, case-control, randomised controlled trial, systematic review or meta-analysis; (2) consecutive admissions of adult individuals with an acute ischaemic or haemorrhagic stroke, confirmed by neuroimaging and (3) comparisons possible between stroke subtypes in acute stroke symptom(s). A random-effects model was used for our analyses. Results We included 58 studies (n=12,878,716; ischaemic stroke=10,814,293; haemorrhagic stroke=2,064,423). The mean age of participants was 65.54+13.84 with 44.98% women. In haemorrhagic stroke, altered GCS occurred more frequently than in ischaemic stroke (OR, 3.93 [95% CI, 2.81–5.49]; AIS/ICH=382,110/59,877, 40 studies), as did headache (OR, 3.34 [95% CI, 2.68–4.17]; AIS/ICH=22,413/6,018; 43 studies), seizure (OR, 2.42 [95% CI, 1.62–3.65]; AIS/ICH=10,427,262/2,004,681; 20 studies), vomiting (OR, 3.82 [95% CI, 2.62–5.57]; AIS/ICH=7,736/3,225; 25 studies), neck stiffness (OR, 5.21 [95% CI, 2.22–12.21]; AIS/ICH=511/168; 3 studies), syncope (OR, 2.95 [95% CI, 2.12–4.12]; AIS/ICH=2,427/494; 6 studies) and dizziness (OR, 1.33 [95% CI, 1.05–1.68]; AIS/ICH=4,730/1,213; 11 studies). Hemiplegia occurred more frequently in ischaemic stroke (OR, 0.67 [95% CI, 0.49–0.91]; AIS/ICH=15,857/4,338; 31 studies) than haemorrhagic stroke, as did ataxia (OR, 0.73 [95% CI, 0.61–0.86]; AIS/ICH=7,741/2,244; 8 studies) and morning onset (OR, 0.41 [95% CI, 0.32– 0.54]; AIS/ICH=2,721/495; 4 studies). Conclusion This review focused on synthesizing existing evidence on differences in clinical presentation between ischaemic and haemorrhagic stroke. It suggests there are substantive differences in stroke symptoms between these subtypes. These results may provide insights into future directions for clinical prediction tool development.","PeriodicalId":7682,"journal":{"name":"Age and ageing","volume":"8 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":6.7,"publicationDate":"2024-09-30","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142360167","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Background Ireland is experiencing substantial growth in the older population. Data from The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA) suggests that up to 25% of older people in Ireland are living with frailty while a further 45% are at risk of being pre-frail (Roe L et al, 2017). Frailty in older adults can be a predictor to adverse health outcomes including hospitalization, falls, and increased mortality risk. Ambulatory day units proactively identify older adults at risk of frailty living in the community using a comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA), potentially reducing adverse outcomes. Methods Plan-Do- Study-Act (PDSA) cycle was used. Waiting lists were reviewed with Consultant Geriatricians for the ambulatory units. Referral pathways for RANP Gerontology Clinics with inclusion and exclusion criteria were developed. RANP clinics were established in 2023 in the ambulatory day units utilising Slaíntecare’s strategy. Referrals were triaged by Consultants Geriatricians resulting in the RANP clinic caseload. Results During 2023, 844 older adults were reviewed in the RANP clinics. This contributed to a reduction in Consultant Geriatricians’ waiting lists and allowed reduced wait times for new Consultant Geriatricians’ referrals. This service also enhanced communication pathways between primary and secondary care settings and became a point of contact for families in crisis, with rapid access review and care planning to avoid unnecessary Emergency Department attendances. Patients attending the RANP clinics, if admitted to hospital, were seen by the RANP during their admission, ensuring continuity of care. Conclusion Overall, establishment of RANP Gerontology clinics resulted in a better streamlined service for the older adult. This service ensures continuity of patient care through a working knowledge of patient cohort and rapid access for those known to the service, potentially avoiding an Emergency Department attendance.
{"title":"Establishment of Registered Advanced Nurse Practitioners (RANP) Gerontology Clinics in Two Ambulatory Day Units","authors":"Nicola McShane, Fiona Monaghan-Tyer, Rebecca Toner","doi":"10.1093/ageing/afae178.231","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1093/ageing/afae178.231","url":null,"abstract":"Background Ireland is experiencing substantial growth in the older population. Data from The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA) suggests that up to 25% of older people in Ireland are living with frailty while a further 45% are at risk of being pre-frail (Roe L et al, 2017). Frailty in older adults can be a predictor to adverse health outcomes including hospitalization, falls, and increased mortality risk. Ambulatory day units proactively identify older adults at risk of frailty living in the community using a comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA), potentially reducing adverse outcomes. Methods Plan-Do- Study-Act (PDSA) cycle was used. Waiting lists were reviewed with Consultant Geriatricians for the ambulatory units. Referral pathways for RANP Gerontology Clinics with inclusion and exclusion criteria were developed. RANP clinics were established in 2023 in the ambulatory day units utilising Slaíntecare’s strategy. Referrals were triaged by Consultants Geriatricians resulting in the RANP clinic caseload. Results During 2023, 844 older adults were reviewed in the RANP clinics. This contributed to a reduction in Consultant Geriatricians’ waiting lists and allowed reduced wait times for new Consultant Geriatricians’ referrals. This service also enhanced communication pathways between primary and secondary care settings and became a point of contact for families in crisis, with rapid access review and care planning to avoid unnecessary Emergency Department attendances. Patients attending the RANP clinics, if admitted to hospital, were seen by the RANP during their admission, ensuring continuity of care. Conclusion Overall, establishment of RANP Gerontology clinics resulted in a better streamlined service for the older adult. This service ensures continuity of patient care through a working knowledge of patient cohort and rapid access for those known to the service, potentially avoiding an Emergency Department attendance.","PeriodicalId":7682,"journal":{"name":"Age and ageing","volume":"22 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":6.7,"publicationDate":"2024-09-30","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142360176","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2024-09-30DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afae178.138
Timothy Geraghty, Niamh Boyle, Mary McNamee, James Kelly, Kieran Lucey, Eithne Harkin
Background Inpatient falls are the largest category of preventable inpatient adverse events in hospitals coming at both great financial and safety cost to a healthcare system. Approximately 30% of inpatient falls result in injury, 4-6% resulting in serious injury with older patients have the highest risk of falling and injury. The aim of this retrospective audit cycle was to improve standards of falls assessments performed by junior doctors. Methods We initially conducted a retrospective review of 7 medical inpatient falls in July 2023. Standards were compared against NICE Guidelines on Assessment and Prevention of Falls in older people 2013 and NICE guidelines on Assessment and early management of head injury 2023. 15 key elements were analysed: doctor identifier, date and time, history of fall, confusion, pain, loss of consciousness, amnesia, seizure, vomiting, medication review, hip fracture, wrist fracture, skull fracture, Glasgow Coma Scale and neurological deficit. One point was given for each of the 15 key elements noted in the falls review. Following introduction of a falls proforma, we re-audited 18 falls in February 2024 to analyse differences in scores. Results Prior to proforma introduction, 7 falls reviewed had an average score of 3 points. 4 falls were reviewed by SHOs, 1 each by an SpR and Intern and 1 NCHD review was unidentifiable. Mean age was 72. Following proforma introduction, 18 falls in 13 patients were analysed. 2 patients did not have a falls review, 15 were reviewed by SHOs, 1 by an Intern. Average age was 81. Proforma was used in 7 cases with an average score of 12.7, and no proforma was used in 11 cases with an average score of 5. Conclusion These findings demonstrate improved quality of falls reviews using proformas in line with guidelines compared to those without. More education is needed to incorporate proformas into standard practice.
{"title":"Retrospective Review of Falls in Medical Inpatients Following Introduction of a Falls Proforma at Wexford General Hospital","authors":"Timothy Geraghty, Niamh Boyle, Mary McNamee, James Kelly, Kieran Lucey, Eithne Harkin","doi":"10.1093/ageing/afae178.138","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1093/ageing/afae178.138","url":null,"abstract":"Background Inpatient falls are the largest category of preventable inpatient adverse events in hospitals coming at both great financial and safety cost to a healthcare system. Approximately 30% of inpatient falls result in injury, 4-6% resulting in serious injury with older patients have the highest risk of falling and injury. The aim of this retrospective audit cycle was to improve standards of falls assessments performed by junior doctors. Methods We initially conducted a retrospective review of 7 medical inpatient falls in July 2023. Standards were compared against NICE Guidelines on Assessment and Prevention of Falls in older people 2013 and NICE guidelines on Assessment and early management of head injury 2023. 15 key elements were analysed: doctor identifier, date and time, history of fall, confusion, pain, loss of consciousness, amnesia, seizure, vomiting, medication review, hip fracture, wrist fracture, skull fracture, Glasgow Coma Scale and neurological deficit. One point was given for each of the 15 key elements noted in the falls review. Following introduction of a falls proforma, we re-audited 18 falls in February 2024 to analyse differences in scores. Results Prior to proforma introduction, 7 falls reviewed had an average score of 3 points. 4 falls were reviewed by SHOs, 1 each by an SpR and Intern and 1 NCHD review was unidentifiable. Mean age was 72. Following proforma introduction, 18 falls in 13 patients were analysed. 2 patients did not have a falls review, 15 were reviewed by SHOs, 1 by an Intern. Average age was 81. Proforma was used in 7 cases with an average score of 12.7, and no proforma was used in 11 cases with an average score of 5. Conclusion These findings demonstrate improved quality of falls reviews using proformas in line with guidelines compared to those without. More education is needed to incorporate proformas into standard practice.","PeriodicalId":7682,"journal":{"name":"Age and ageing","volume":"56 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":6.7,"publicationDate":"2024-09-30","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142360274","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2024-09-30DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afae178.200
Niamh Heraughty, Laura Douglas, Orla Montague
Background In November 2020 the referral rate for residents with dementia for communication assessment was only 18% of all referrals. The Speech and Language Therapy (SLT) Department had no standard pathway for assessment and intervention of communication for those residents. Part of the aim of devising this pathway was to empower our fellow Health Care Workers (HCWs) to have meaningful, successful and satisfying conversations and facilitate positive, person-centred communication. Methods Results Qualitative feedback received from staff and families highlight our residents' “personhood” and how the tools help preserve residents' memories. The tools are available in resident's files for all HCWs to use. SLTs continue to complete the cognitive and language screens but student nurses complete the Getting To Know Me questionnaire. Since commencement of this initiative there have been more than 230 residents whom have at least 1 of the tools is completed. Conclusion These tools can help reveal the personhood of our residents and can empower all HCWs in conversation with residents. They help to provide comfort and attachment to people with dementia by helping us maintain their identity and foster inclusion by empowering residents and staff in conversations. This project is easily replicated and practical.
{"title":"Providing A ‘Helping Hand’ To ‘Get to Know Me’ And What ‘I Can’ Do For People With Dementia","authors":"Niamh Heraughty, Laura Douglas, Orla Montague","doi":"10.1093/ageing/afae178.200","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1093/ageing/afae178.200","url":null,"abstract":"Background In November 2020 the referral rate for residents with dementia for communication assessment was only 18% of all referrals. The Speech and Language Therapy (SLT) Department had no standard pathway for assessment and intervention of communication for those residents. Part of the aim of devising this pathway was to empower our fellow Health Care Workers (HCWs) to have meaningful, successful and satisfying conversations and facilitate positive, person-centred communication. Methods Results Qualitative feedback received from staff and families highlight our residents' “personhood” and how the tools help preserve residents' memories. The tools are available in resident's files for all HCWs to use. SLTs continue to complete the cognitive and language screens but student nurses complete the Getting To Know Me questionnaire. Since commencement of this initiative there have been more than 230 residents whom have at least 1 of the tools is completed. Conclusion These tools can help reveal the personhood of our residents and can empower all HCWs in conversation with residents. They help to provide comfort and attachment to people with dementia by helping us maintain their identity and foster inclusion by empowering residents and staff in conversations. This project is easily replicated and practical.","PeriodicalId":7682,"journal":{"name":"Age and ageing","volume":"19 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":6.7,"publicationDate":"2024-09-30","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142329989","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2024-09-30DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afae178.312
Ross O'Grady, Aine O'Reilly, Doctor Tom Lee
Background Echocardiography (Echo) is frequently utilized as part of the work up for ischemic stroke. National guidelines suggest using echo to assess for source of unexplained stroke “if detection of a structural cardiac abnormality would prompt a change of management”. This study aims to describe the use of Echocardiography post-stroke in Mayo University Hospital (MUH). Methods The study population was derived from a list of strokes admitted to MUH from July to December 2023 which was compiled by the Stroke ANP. The radiology system was consulted to assess time to echo and findings. Results 86 ischemic strokes were identified. 77 (89%) had echocardiography ordered as inpatient. 61 of 77 echoes ordered were filmed during admission. The mean wait for echo was 6.4 days. No PFO or LV thrombus was detected. In 52% (n=32) of echo’s performed for work up of aetiology of stroke there was no mention of intra-atrial septum (IAS) in the report. 24% had Modified Rankin Scale on discharge of 4 or above. Of these, 75% had echo ordered as inpatient despite 60% already having atrial fibrillation diagnosed. Conclusion Echocardiography appeared to be an over-utilised resource in ischemic strokes in MUH. The vast majority of patients with stroke, even if frail, elderly, or severely disabled, had echocardiography ordered despite national guidelines suggesting usage of echo only when diagnosis of structural heart disease was likely to change management. The intra-atrial septum wasn’t even mentioned in the majority of studies. The wait for echocardiography appears to be extending bed days for patients putting strain on hospital inpatient capacity and emergency departments. A more nuanced approach to ordering echo in the setting of acute stroke could be advocated for, this will take a collaborative effort between Cardiology and Stroke Medicine in order to prioritise that will most benefit from this precious resource.
{"title":"Echocardiography In Acute Stroke - A Precious Resource","authors":"Ross O'Grady, Aine O'Reilly, Doctor Tom Lee","doi":"10.1093/ageing/afae178.312","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1093/ageing/afae178.312","url":null,"abstract":"Background Echocardiography (Echo) is frequently utilized as part of the work up for ischemic stroke. National guidelines suggest using echo to assess for source of unexplained stroke “if detection of a structural cardiac abnormality would prompt a change of management”. This study aims to describe the use of Echocardiography post-stroke in Mayo University Hospital (MUH). Methods The study population was derived from a list of strokes admitted to MUH from July to December 2023 which was compiled by the Stroke ANP. The radiology system was consulted to assess time to echo and findings. Results 86 ischemic strokes were identified. 77 (89%) had echocardiography ordered as inpatient. 61 of 77 echoes ordered were filmed during admission. The mean wait for echo was 6.4 days. No PFO or LV thrombus was detected. In 52% (n=32) of echo’s performed for work up of aetiology of stroke there was no mention of intra-atrial septum (IAS) in the report. 24% had Modified Rankin Scale on discharge of 4 or above. Of these, 75% had echo ordered as inpatient despite 60% already having atrial fibrillation diagnosed. Conclusion Echocardiography appeared to be an over-utilised resource in ischemic strokes in MUH. The vast majority of patients with stroke, even if frail, elderly, or severely disabled, had echocardiography ordered despite national guidelines suggesting usage of echo only when diagnosis of structural heart disease was likely to change management. The intra-atrial septum wasn’t even mentioned in the majority of studies. The wait for echocardiography appears to be extending bed days for patients putting strain on hospital inpatient capacity and emergency departments. A more nuanced approach to ordering echo in the setting of acute stroke could be advocated for, this will take a collaborative effort between Cardiology and Stroke Medicine in order to prioritise that will most benefit from this precious resource.","PeriodicalId":7682,"journal":{"name":"Age and ageing","volume":"22 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":6.7,"publicationDate":"2024-09-30","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142360092","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Background The Emergency Department Admission Prevention Therapy (EDAPT) service was developed by Therapy staff of the Pathfinder team in order to facilitate timely and appropriate discharges from the Emergency Department (ED) and to maximise capacity for the follow-up team. The aim of this pilot is to provide rapid access to therapy post discharge from ED for older adults with acute decline in function in order to prevent hospital admission. The service provides a short-term reablement approach within the home aiming to facilitate patients to regain pre-acuity baseline. EDAPT was modelled from an existing service but has now been expanded to accepting direct referrals from ED Medical Staff and Advanced Nurse Practitioners (ANPs) outside of standard working hours. Methods The pilot was introduced following collaboration and consultation with a number of key stakeholders including respective Therapy Managers, ED Consultants, ANPs and ED Therapists. A new EDAPT referral pathway was created, and documentation including specific referral and assessment forms. A designated area for receipt of referrals in the ED department was chosen and checked daily. Results 64 patients with a mean age of 80.5 years were referred to the EDAPT service from November ’23 to April ’24. 53 of those patients received face-to-face input and had a mean Clinical Frailty Scale score of 5. 27% (n=17) of referrals were initiated out-of-hours via Medical and ANP staff and 48% (n=31) of referrals were falls related. Patients received an average of 2 follow-up visits during EDAPT involvement. Conclusion The EDAPT pilot is successfully facilitating timely and appropriate discharges from the ED, improving patient experience and patient flow from ED to their own home. The pilot integrates acute hospital care and community services, supporting a person-centred approach of the right care, at the right time and in the right place.
{"title":"EDAPT: The Development And Implementation Of A Novel Referral Pathway From The Emergency Department","authors":"Eileen Harty, Eimear Walsh, Elaine O'Keeffe, Aoife Dennehy","doi":"10.1093/ageing/afae178.080","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1093/ageing/afae178.080","url":null,"abstract":"Background The Emergency Department Admission Prevention Therapy (EDAPT) service was developed by Therapy staff of the Pathfinder team in order to facilitate timely and appropriate discharges from the Emergency Department (ED) and to maximise capacity for the follow-up team. The aim of this pilot is to provide rapid access to therapy post discharge from ED for older adults with acute decline in function in order to prevent hospital admission. The service provides a short-term reablement approach within the home aiming to facilitate patients to regain pre-acuity baseline. EDAPT was modelled from an existing service but has now been expanded to accepting direct referrals from ED Medical Staff and Advanced Nurse Practitioners (ANPs) outside of standard working hours. Methods The pilot was introduced following collaboration and consultation with a number of key stakeholders including respective Therapy Managers, ED Consultants, ANPs and ED Therapists. A new EDAPT referral pathway was created, and documentation including specific referral and assessment forms. A designated area for receipt of referrals in the ED department was chosen and checked daily. Results 64 patients with a mean age of 80.5 years were referred to the EDAPT service from November ’23 to April ’24. 53 of those patients received face-to-face input and had a mean Clinical Frailty Scale score of 5. 27% (n=17) of referrals were initiated out-of-hours via Medical and ANP staff and 48% (n=31) of referrals were falls related. Patients received an average of 2 follow-up visits during EDAPT involvement. Conclusion The EDAPT pilot is successfully facilitating timely and appropriate discharges from the ED, improving patient experience and patient flow from ED to their own home. The pilot integrates acute hospital care and community services, supporting a person-centred approach of the right care, at the right time and in the right place.","PeriodicalId":7682,"journal":{"name":"Age and ageing","volume":"74 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":6.7,"publicationDate":"2024-09-30","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142360212","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2024-09-30DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afae178.091
Sara Solis, Brian Lawlor, Roman Romero-Ortuno
Background Standing poses a hemodynamic challenge for the cardiovascular system, regulated by neurohumoral reflexes. In 2023, an elevated blood pressure response upon standing was officially defined as a minimum 20 mmHg increase in systolic pressure during position changes, distinguishing Orthostatic Hypertension (OHT) as a condition where blood pressure exceeds 140 mmHg when standing. This new definition underscores the importance of understanding the implications of OHT on individuals' health and quality of life. Methods Retrospective study of the Technology Research for Independent Living (TRIL) Clinic at St. James’s Hospital, from August 2007 to May 2009. The population included healthy community-dwelling adults aged 60 and older. This study aimed to profile individuals with OHT, understand the predictors of this condition, and explore its association with biopsychosocial variables. Results In a study of 442 participants (67.7% female, mean age 72.7), we identified a prevalence rate of 12.9% for an exaggerated orthostatic pressor response and observed OHT in 6.1% of participants at the 120-second mark after standing. Additionally, significant associations were discovered between OHT and conditions such as heart failure, stroke, and the use of certain medications such as SSRI and ACE inhibitors. Conclusion The results of this study highlight the potential health consequences of OHT among older adults, particularly in those with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions. Further research is needed to explore this lesser-known but significant orthostatic disorder.
{"title":"Characteristics and Presentation of Orthostatic Hypertension in Community-Dwelling Older Adults","authors":"Sara Solis, Brian Lawlor, Roman Romero-Ortuno","doi":"10.1093/ageing/afae178.091","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1093/ageing/afae178.091","url":null,"abstract":"Background Standing poses a hemodynamic challenge for the cardiovascular system, regulated by neurohumoral reflexes. In 2023, an elevated blood pressure response upon standing was officially defined as a minimum 20 mmHg increase in systolic pressure during position changes, distinguishing Orthostatic Hypertension (OHT) as a condition where blood pressure exceeds 140 mmHg when standing. This new definition underscores the importance of understanding the implications of OHT on individuals' health and quality of life. Methods Retrospective study of the Technology Research for Independent Living (TRIL) Clinic at St. James’s Hospital, from August 2007 to May 2009. The population included healthy community-dwelling adults aged 60 and older. This study aimed to profile individuals with OHT, understand the predictors of this condition, and explore its association with biopsychosocial variables. Results In a study of 442 participants (67.7% female, mean age 72.7), we identified a prevalence rate of 12.9% for an exaggerated orthostatic pressor response and observed OHT in 6.1% of participants at the 120-second mark after standing. Additionally, significant associations were discovered between OHT and conditions such as heart failure, stroke, and the use of certain medications such as SSRI and ACE inhibitors. Conclusion The results of this study highlight the potential health consequences of OHT among older adults, particularly in those with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions. Further research is needed to explore this lesser-known but significant orthostatic disorder.","PeriodicalId":7682,"journal":{"name":"Age and ageing","volume":"1 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":6.7,"publicationDate":"2024-09-30","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142360208","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Background Our Long-Term Residential Care facility provides physiotherapy services for approximately 117 Day Care clients. As part of our local Quality Improvement Programme, we wished to assess client perception of Day Centre Functional physiotherapy classes to help ascertain their perception regarding exercise intensity of classes, ability to follow guidance in class and ask questions. Emphasis of the class is to promote a learning environment, improve health literacy and functional independence of clients. As Falls Prevention is key re National Programme for older people (NCOP) and National Frailty Education, questions related to falls frequency and fear of falls prevalence. Methods This was a survey distributed to our Day Centre clients who attend physiotherapy. All Older adults (> 65 years), This was a qualitative survey distributed to our Day Centre clients who attend physiotherapy. All Older adults (> 65 years) Results 70% response rate. 100% reported feeling comfortable asking Physio instructor questions & that exercise guidance was clear and understandable. 96% reported being physically able to keep up with class intensity. 80% reported class intensity as moderate, 20% as high, 0% reported class intensity as easy. 84% reported a fear of falling. 17% reported no fall in the previous year. 68% reported 1-3 falls, 15% reported > 3 falls in last year. Class attendances reported: 4% 0-5 classes, 18% 5-10 classes, 78% more than 10 classes. Conclusion Results obtained from the survey have provided worthwhile feedback and supports that Falls prevention measures should address fear of falls. Significant findings on client satisfaction/perception of exercise intensity noted. Next steps will include tailoring physiotherapy classes for this demographic to include fear of falling, optimising exercise intensity, promoting health literacy and best practice for exercise prescription. Also, consideration of further objective testing of balance post physio class programme period to ascertain success of exercise classes.
{"title":"Day Centre Functional Physiotherapy Classes for Older People; Client Survey","authors":"Eugene MacDonagh, Ruth Lordan, Florence Horsman Hogan","doi":"10.1093/ageing/afae178.058","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1093/ageing/afae178.058","url":null,"abstract":"Background Our Long-Term Residential Care facility provides physiotherapy services for approximately 117 Day Care clients. As part of our local Quality Improvement Programme, we wished to assess client perception of Day Centre Functional physiotherapy classes to help ascertain their perception regarding exercise intensity of classes, ability to follow guidance in class and ask questions. Emphasis of the class is to promote a learning environment, improve health literacy and functional independence of clients. As Falls Prevention is key re National Programme for older people (NCOP) and National Frailty Education, questions related to falls frequency and fear of falls prevalence. Methods This was a survey distributed to our Day Centre clients who attend physiotherapy. All Older adults (> 65 years), This was a qualitative survey distributed to our Day Centre clients who attend physiotherapy. All Older adults (> 65 years) Results 70% response rate. 100% reported feeling comfortable asking Physio instructor questions & that exercise guidance was clear and understandable. 96% reported being physically able to keep up with class intensity. 80% reported class intensity as moderate, 20% as high, 0% reported class intensity as easy. 84% reported a fear of falling. 17% reported no fall in the previous year. 68% reported 1-3 falls, 15% reported > 3 falls in last year. Class attendances reported: 4% 0-5 classes, 18% 5-10 classes, 78% more than 10 classes. Conclusion Results obtained from the survey have provided worthwhile feedback and supports that Falls prevention measures should address fear of falls. Significant findings on client satisfaction/perception of exercise intensity noted. Next steps will include tailoring physiotherapy classes for this demographic to include fear of falling, optimising exercise intensity, promoting health literacy and best practice for exercise prescription. Also, consideration of further objective testing of balance post physio class programme period to ascertain success of exercise classes.","PeriodicalId":7682,"journal":{"name":"Age and ageing","volume":"38 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":6.7,"publicationDate":"2024-09-30","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142360276","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2024-09-30DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afae178.131
Michael Oyuga, John P McCormick, Hayley Power, Seán Ryan, Anne Regan, Robert Trueick, Fionn Nally, Faisal Al-Harthi, Patrick O'Boyle
Background Outcomes following in-hospital cardiac arrest remain poor despite advances in resuscitation techniques. Establishing “goals of care” is crucial to optimizing patient care and avoiding burdensome interventions in those who are unlikely to benefit from resuscitation. Doctors often avoid discussions regarding ‘goals of care’ with patients in whom cardiac arrest is not deemed likely at the time of admission. Methods All cardiac arrest team activations for non-pregnant, adult inpatients on medical and surgical wards at our institution from December 2022 – June 2023 were prospectively analysed. Qualitative analysis of inpatient charts was performed to assess; incidence of cardiac arrest, demographic and clinical data, and the degree to which discussions regarding escalation of care had taken place. Results 66 cardiac arrest team activations were screened, of which 23 calls were included for analysis. The estimated incidence of cardiac arrest was 1.11-1.67 events per 1,000 patient discharges. 18 patients (78.2%) were under the care of general medicine or geriatric teams at the time of arrest call. 12 (52%) patients were older than 70 and 4 (17%) were older than 80. Falls were the most common reason for admission (22.7%) among patients for whom the cardiac arrest team was activated. 2 patients (12.5%) with confirmed cardiac arrest survived to hospital discharge. Discussions regarding goals of care were documented for 8/23 patients (34.7%). Conclusion Cardiac arrests were uncommon in our institution. Discussions regarding goals of care were documented in only a third of cases, possibly because many patients presented with issues not typically associated with a risk of subsequent arrest. Given the low survival rates to discharge, routine discussion of goals of care should be considered at the point of admission in all patients who are unlikely to benefit from resuscitation, regardless of the presenting complaint.
{"title":"Goals of Care Discussions Among Patients Who Suffer Cardiac Arrest","authors":"Michael Oyuga, John P McCormick, Hayley Power, Seán Ryan, Anne Regan, Robert Trueick, Fionn Nally, Faisal Al-Harthi, Patrick O'Boyle","doi":"10.1093/ageing/afae178.131","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1093/ageing/afae178.131","url":null,"abstract":"Background Outcomes following in-hospital cardiac arrest remain poor despite advances in resuscitation techniques. Establishing “goals of care” is crucial to optimizing patient care and avoiding burdensome interventions in those who are unlikely to benefit from resuscitation. Doctors often avoid discussions regarding ‘goals of care’ with patients in whom cardiac arrest is not deemed likely at the time of admission. Methods All cardiac arrest team activations for non-pregnant, adult inpatients on medical and surgical wards at our institution from December 2022 – June 2023 were prospectively analysed. Qualitative analysis of inpatient charts was performed to assess; incidence of cardiac arrest, demographic and clinical data, and the degree to which discussions regarding escalation of care had taken place. Results 66 cardiac arrest team activations were screened, of which 23 calls were included for analysis. The estimated incidence of cardiac arrest was 1.11-1.67 events per 1,000 patient discharges. 18 patients (78.2%) were under the care of general medicine or geriatric teams at the time of arrest call. 12 (52%) patients were older than 70 and 4 (17%) were older than 80. Falls were the most common reason for admission (22.7%) among patients for whom the cardiac arrest team was activated. 2 patients (12.5%) with confirmed cardiac arrest survived to hospital discharge. Discussions regarding goals of care were documented for 8/23 patients (34.7%). Conclusion Cardiac arrests were uncommon in our institution. Discussions regarding goals of care were documented in only a third of cases, possibly because many patients presented with issues not typically associated with a risk of subsequent arrest. Given the low survival rates to discharge, routine discussion of goals of care should be considered at the point of admission in all patients who are unlikely to benefit from resuscitation, regardless of the presenting complaint.","PeriodicalId":7682,"journal":{"name":"Age and ageing","volume":"22 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":6.7,"publicationDate":"2024-09-30","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142360278","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}