Self-Guided Pre-Surgical Optimization of Older Adults: An Integrative Literature Review

BackgroundSurgical complications pose a significant risk for older adults (60+ years old) undergoing elective surgery, highlighting the need for interventions to prevent harm. Pre-surgical optimization has been postulated as one method to promote health outcomes before elective surgeries. Creative approaches to pre-surgical optimization are necessary, especially given the shortage of health-care providers. This review examines the existing literature on critical elements of pre-surgical optimization that older adults can effectively self-manage as well as the best methods to design resources to empower older adults to self-optimize prior to surgery.MethodsAn integrative review was conducted by searching literature indexed in Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), PubMed, and Scopus.ResultsTwo themes emerged from the analysis of 22 empirical studies: 1) critical elements of pre-surgical optimization for older adults, and 2) effective strategies for educating and preparing older adults for surgery. Additionally, six subthemes were identified.ConclusionEvidence-informed self-guided pre-surgical optimization resources for older adults should be developed to prevent surgical complications among older adults.