1. Delta Alerts: Changing Outcomes in Geriatric Trauma.
- Author
-
Wiles LL, Day MD, and Harris L
- Subjects
- Accidental Falls statistics & numerical data, Adult, Aged, Aged, 80 and over, Aging physiology, Female, Humans, Injury Severity Score, Male, Nurse's Role, Trauma Centers, United States, Wounds and Injuries diagnosis, Wounds and Injuries epidemiology, Awareness, Geriatric Assessment, Outcome Assessment, Health Care, Wounds and Injuries nursing
- Abstract
Geriatric trauma patients (GTPs) suffering minor injuries have suboptimal outcomes compared with younger populations. Patients 65 years or older account for 10% of all traumas but 28% of all trauma deaths. This trauma center established a third tier trauma alert specifically targeting GTPs at risk for poor outcomes. A Delta Alert is activated when GTPs suffer injuries that fall outside traditional trauma alert guidelines. Early identification and treatment of injuries and expedited referral to specialty groups have improved our GTPs' outcomes including decreased mortality and length of stay and increased percentage of GTPs who are discharged home.
- Published
- 2016
- Full Text
- View/download PDF