Post-Acute Admission Mortality Rates for Nursing Home Residents

Abstract Background Nursing home residents (NHRs) constitute a vulnerable demographic with intricate healthcare requirements, often burdened by multiple comorbidities. A specialised geriatrician-led acute care team for NHRs was established in a University Teaching Hospital. This service prioritises the unique needs of NHRs, delivering tailored treatments in environments conducive to their well-being, while also striving to mitigate the adverse effects associated with avoidable hospitalizations. Methods An analysis of NHR admissions to a University Teaching Hospital in 2023, showed that 307 out of 343 (89.5%) were discharged back to the community. All discharged NHRs were followed up. Their 3 and 6 month mortality rate post discharge was 8% (n=24) and 13% (n=40) respectively. Majority of these frail NHRs survived beyond six months following hospital admissions, indicative of the potential impact of a specialized gerontological care follow-up. Results This specialist team has a post-discharge follow-up protocol for all admitted NHR residents, aimed to detect potential deteriorations and offer alternative avenues of review, minimizing unnecessary emergency department visits, particularly in non-urgent cases. Interventions such as the FastTrack Fracture service, direct ED reviews, and facilitating outpatient appointments were instrumental in this endeavour. Conclusion In summary, the establishment of this specialised geriatrician-led acute care team for NHRs marks a substantial stride in addressing the multifaceted needs of frail older adults in nursing homes. By leveraging the expertise of gerontologically attuned practitioners and emphasizing person-centered care approaches, these services provide a holistic and individualized solution to enhance outcomes and elevate the quality of life for this vulnerable population. Sustained investment in the development and expansion of such services is paramount for advancing care standards for older adults and fostering a more age-friendly healthcare milieu.