Training to spot frailty risk

A properly trained nurse may be key to combatting frailty, according to new findings published in JAMDA.

Researchers observed a specialist nurse who they trained in primary care and geriatric assessment. The training was an effort to explore a care model to identify seniors in geriatric day hospitals (GDHFs) at risk for frailty-related health issues.

The nurse evaluated 200 patients using the comprehensive geriatric assessment and frailty assessment tools as well as collaborated with a general practitioner (GP) to create a care plan.

“This work foreshadows any other ambulatory options for older persons in his/her living area representing an alternative to the GDHF,” the researchers concluded. “It seems to meet the needs for this population and demonstrates the feasibility to implement in primary care a nurse trained to assess older patients in a GP office.”

 


Topics: Clinical