Two Brief Steps, Better Foresight: Cognitive Screening and Adverse Outcomes in Older Adults Admitted From the Emergency Department

Key Points

• This research aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a brief cognitive screening strategy in older adults admitted through the emergency department.
• Implemented a two-step screening approach for cognitive impairment and delirium assessment.
• Focused on older adults admitted without delirium from the emergency department.
• Observed and analyzed adverse outcomes over a 90-day period.
• Cognitive impairment was frequently unrecognized in older adults during admission.
• Enhanced screening led to better identification of cognitive vulnerabilities.
• Improved forecasting of adverse outcomes at the 90-day mark.