Changes In Care Management After “Fast Track” Protocol Introduction For Hip Fracture Patients

Background and objective. The introduction of fast track schemes for patients with hip fracture usually results in reductions in length of stay and mortality, and reduces the numbers of complications. The aim of this study was to evaluate the changes in proce�- dure performance, time from admission to surgery and length of stay after introduction of the fast track protocol (FTP). Materials and methods. 235 patients with hip fracture treated before FTP introduction and after the introduction were prospectively investigated. We studied the use of fracture immobilization, analgesics, infusion therapy, blood test sampling and ECG registration during these two periods. Information about the mean/median time period from admission to surgery and length of stay in the hospital (LOS) in the orthopaedic department was recorded. Results. Significant improvements in the use of im�- mobilization, infusion therapy, blood test sampling and ECG recording were observed after FTP introduction. Also significant reductions were observed in both waiting time for surgery and for LOS. Conclusion. Introduction of a FTP improved the use of procedures necessary for hip fracture patient care, while reducing wait to surgery time and LOS.