|
Title
|
|
|
|
Vital signs, the magic key in preventing hospitalization and death in nursing home residents aged 65 and older
| |
|
Author
|
|
|
|
| |
|
Abstract
|
|
|
|
| Aim: The purpose of this study was to develop a Geriatric Early Warning Instrument (GEWI) able to prematurely identify subtle physical changes that lead to negative health outcomes, such as hospitalization and death. Methodology: The study was a prospective cohort study where vital signs were assessed over a seven week period of time nursing home residents ages 65 and older living in Antwerp, Belgium. Furthermore, medical records were consulted to register the number of hospitalizations, deaths and Katz-scores. Findings: Residents encountering a negative outcome (hospitalization or death) had a lower mean systolic blood pressure and a lower blood oxygen level (p<0,05). In those residents, systolic blood pressure and blood oxygen level showed a significant but very weak correlation (0,30>r>-0,30). Systolic blood pressure, heart rate and blood oxygen level were significant predictors for negative outcomes and hospitalization, whereas a higher heart rate and lower blood pressure were significant predictors for premature death. Conclusion: While the initial results were promising, a general conclusion was difficult to generate. Initial findings indicated that systolic blood pressure and blood oxygen level may possibly predict negative outcomes, hospitalization and death. Future large multi-centered research is needed to expand the database in order to confirm these findings. |
| |
|
Language
|
|
|
|
English
| |
|
Source (journal)
|
|
|
|
Advanced practices in nursing
| |
|
Publication
|
|
|
|
2019
| |
|
Volume/pages
|
|
|
|
4
:2
(2019)
, p. 1-4
| |
|
Article Reference
|
|
|
|
1000160
| |
|
Medium
|
|
|
|
E-only publicatie
| |
|
Full text (open access)
|
|
|
|
| |
|