Author:
Adams Jacquelyn D.,Anderson Sue,Cook K. LuAnn,Tivis Laura J.
Abstract
The objectives of the current process improvement project were to improve access to health care and enhance care for older adults living in rural areas and to decrease morbidity and mortality. This project implemented an evidence-based screening tool, the Rapid Geriatric Assessment (RGA), as a routine screening in a patient-centered medical home for older adults in rural areas. Z-testing was used to measure the change, defined as scoring positive for at least one of four geriatric syndromes, as a result of using the RGA tool. Approximately one third had at least one such change following implementation of the RGA. In addition to the change in geriatric conditions, a significant change (48%) was noted in the number of patients who implemented an advance directive. We recommend the RGA be integrated in routine screening as it can help providers establish a targeted treatment plan for older adults who may be at increased risk for burden of disease. [
Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 48
(9), 47–51.]
Subject
Gerontology,General Nursing
Reference14 articles.
1. Geriatric syndromes as predictors of adverse outcomes of hospitalization
2. The z-test for a single proportion
3. Physician and Nurse Acceptance of Technicians to Screen for Geriatric Syndromes in the Emergency Department
4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Audience insights: Communicating to boomers (1946–1962) . https://www.cdc.gov/healthcommunication/pdf/audience/audienceinsight_boomers.pdf
5. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. (2017). Risk adjustment fact sheet. https://www.cms.gov/Medicare/Medicare-Fee-for-Service-Payment/PhysicianFeedbackProgram/Downloads/2015-RiskAdj-FactSheet.pdf