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Watkins PM, Buzzacott P, Tohira H, Majewski D, Hill AM, Brink D, Brits R, Finn J. Emergency Medical Service Attendances for Adults with Repeat Falls in Western Australia: A State-Wide Retrospective Cohort Study. PREHOSP EMERG CARE 2024:1-9. [PMID: 38588441 DOI: 10.1080/10903127.2024.2338915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The risk of falls increases with age and often requires an emergency medical service (EMS) response. We compared the characteristics of patients attended by EMS in response to repeat falls within 30 days and 12 months of their first EMS-attended fall; and explored the number of days between the index fall and the subsequent fall(s). METHODS This retrospective cohort study included all adults (> =18 years of age) who experienced their first EMS-attended fall between 1 January 2016 and 31 December 2020, followed up until 31 December 2021. Patients who experienced > =1 subsequent fall, following their first recorded fall, were defined as experiencing repeat falls. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify the factors associated with repeat falls; and Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to estimate the time (in days) between consecutive EMS-attended falls. RESULTS A total of 128,588 EMS-attended fall-related incidents occurred involving 77,087 individual patients. Most patients, 54,554 (71%) were attended only once for a fall-related incident (30,280 females; median age 73 years, inter-quartile range (IQR): 55-84). A total of 22,533 (29%) patients experienced repeat EMS-attended falls (13,248 females; median age 83 years, IQR: 74-89, at first call). These 22,533 patients accounted for 58% (74,034 attendances) of all EMS-attendances to fall-related incidents. Time between EMS-attended falls decreased significantly the more falls a patient sustained. Among the 22,533 patients who experienced repeat falls, 13,363 (59%) of repeat falls occurred within 12 months: 3,103 (14%) of patients sustained their second fall within 30 days of their index fall, and 10,260 (46%) between 31 days to 12 months. Patients who were transported to the hospital, via any urgency, at their first EMS-attended fall, had a reduced odds of sustaining a second EMS-attended fall within both 30 days and 31 days to 12 months, compared to non-transported patients. CONCLUSION Nearly 30% of all patients attended by EMS for a fall, sustained repeat falls, which collectively accounted for nearly 60% of all EMS-attendances to fall-related incidents. Further exploration of the role EMS clinicians play in identifying and referring patients who sustain repeat falls into alternative pathways is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paige M Watkins
- Prehospital Resuscitation and Emergency Care Research Unit (PRECRU), Curtin School of Nursing, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Peter Buzzacott
- Prehospital Resuscitation and Emergency Care Research Unit (PRECRU), Curtin School of Nursing, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Hideo Tohira
- Prehospital Resuscitation and Emergency Care Research Unit (PRECRU), Curtin School of Nursing, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Emergency Medicine, Medical School, the University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - David Majewski
- Prehospital Resuscitation and Emergency Care Research Unit (PRECRU), Curtin School of Nursing, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Anne-Marie Hill
- School of Allied Health, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Deon Brink
- Prehospital Resuscitation and Emergency Care Research Unit (PRECRU), Curtin School of Nursing, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Rudi Brits
- St John Western Australia, Belmont, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Judith Finn
- Prehospital Resuscitation and Emergency Care Research Unit (PRECRU), Curtin School of Nursing, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Emergency Medicine, Medical School, the University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
- St John Western Australia, Belmont, Western Australia, Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Deng J, Lei T, Du X. Effects of sensory integration training on balance function and executive function in children with autism spectrum disorder: evidence from Footscan and fNIRS. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1269462. [PMID: 37946875 PMCID: PMC10631781 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1269462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction This study investigates the efficacy of sensory integration training (SIT) in enhancing balance and executive functions in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), with the aim of highlighting its potential for organizing and processing sensory information in the brain. Methods Utilizing Footscan for biomechanical evidence and functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) for neural activation, we engaged two participant groups: a control group (n = 9) and an experimental group (n = 9). Assessments involved the Sharpened Romberg Test (SRT) for balance under varied visual conditions and the Go/No-Go task for executive function. Results The SIT intervention significantly improved balance function, particularly in Visual Deprivation (VD) scenarios. Neurophysiological data revealed heightened activation in the right Inferior Frontal Gyrus (R-IFG) and right Middle Frontal Gyrus (R-MFG), suggesting enhanced executive function. The potential of R-IFG/MFG activation as a reliable biomarker for assessing executive function in ASD was identified. Discussion The study provides empirical evidence supporting SIT's effectiveness in enhancing balance and executive functions in children with ASD. The therapy not only improves sensory processing and motor skills but also appears to compensate for sensory deficits, particularly in vision, vestibular perception, and proprioception. Enhanced neural activation in specific PFC regions underscores SIT's role in improving cognitive aspects, including inhibitory control and cognitive flexibility. The multidisciplinary approach adopted for this research highlights the intricate interplay between sensory-motor functions and cognitive control in ASD, paving the way for integrated therapeutic strategies. Despite these advancements, the mechanisms through which SIT exerts these multifaceted effects require further exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junchen Deng
- College of Sport Arts, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ting Lei
- College of Graduate, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiru Du
- College of Sport Arts, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou, China
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Peters A, Lim D, Naidoo N. Down with falls! Paramedicine scope regarding falls amongst older adults in rural and remote communities: A scoping review. Aust J Rural Health 2023. [PMID: 37200405 DOI: 10.1111/ajr.12994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Australian rural and remote areas are faced with the double burden of an ageing population paired with inequitable access to health resources due to the paradigm of major city centred health care. This complicates fall management within this space. Paramedics are a registered health profession, which provides mobile, equitable health care. However, this resource is not being effectively utilised in rural and remote areas where primary care access barriers may cause patient needs to go unmet. OBJECTIVE To describe the existing literature and describe the international scope of current paramedicine practice in the out-of-hospital management of falls amongst older adults in rural and remote settings. DESIGN Joanna Briggs Institute scoping review methodology was employed. CINAHL (EBSCO), MEDLINE (Ovid), EMBASE (Ovid), SCOPUS (Elsevier), Google Scholar and These Global were searched and Australian, New Zealand and the UK ambulance service guidelines were sought. FINDINGS Two records met inclusion criteria. Currently, rural and remote paramedic fall management involves preventative health promotion through patient education, population-based screening and referrals. DISCUSSION The use of paramedics to screen at-risk populations and refer is vital, as many rural adults had screened positive to fall risks and other unmet needs. There is poor recollection of physically printed education material and low acceptance of further in-home assessments following paramedic departure. CONCLUSION This scoping review has highlighted a significant knowledge gap on this topic. Further research is needed to effectively utilise paramedicine within areas where access to primary care is not possible to achieve downstream, risk reducing care in the home.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aidan Peters
- School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David Lim
- School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Centre for Remote Health, Alice Springs, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Navindhra Naidoo
- School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Corcoran G, Bernard P, Kenna L, Malone A, Horgan F, O'Brien C, Ward P, Howard W, Hogan L, Mooney R, Masterson S. "Older People Want to Be in Their Own Homes": A Service Evaluation of Patient and Carer Feedback after Pathfinder Responded to Their Emergency Calls. PREHOSP EMERG CARE 2023; 27:866-874. [PMID: 36633524 DOI: 10.1080/10903127.2023.2168094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Older people experience high rates of adverse outcomes following emergency department (ED) presentation. There is growing evidence to support alternative care pathways for certain types of emergency medical services (EMS) calls. Pathfinder is one such service and targets patients aged 65 years and over, whose presenting issues can be safely managed at home by immediate paramedic, occupational therapy, and/or physiotherapy interventions. The aim of this service evaluation was to understand how older people feel about being treated at home as a result of EMS calls and to understand their experiences of the Pathfinder service. METHODS This was a thematic analysis of open-ended responses recorded from telephone interviews during routine service evaluation with service users (patients or their next-of-kin). RESULTS Of 573 service users, telephone interviews were conducted with 429 (75%). Five primary themes were identified: (1) professionalism of the multidisciplinary clinical team; (2) "the right service, in the right place, at the right time"; (3) role of Pathfinder in "getting the ball rolling"; (4) lasting effects of the experience on the patient and his or her next-of-kin; (5) value of skilled communication with the older person. CONCLUSION Older people and their next-of-kin voiced a clear preference for hospital avoidance, and strongly valued the opportunity to be treated in their homes at the time of an EMS call rather than default conveyance to the ED. They appreciated the importance of a skilled multidisciplinary team with a follow-up service that effectively positions itself between the acute hospital and community services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Corcoran
- Physiotherapy Department, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Paul Bernard
- Occupational Therapy Department, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Lawrence Kenna
- National Ambulance Service, Health Service Executive, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Ailish Malone
- School of Physiotherapy, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Frances Horgan
- School of Physiotherapy, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Claire O'Brien
- Occupational Therapy Department, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Peter Ward
- Physiotherapy Department, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Willie Howard
- National Ambulance Service, Health Service Executive, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Laura Hogan
- National Ambulance Service, Health Service Executive, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Rebecca Mooney
- National Ambulance Service, Health Service Executive, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Siobhan Masterson
- National Ambulance Service, Health Service Executive, Dublin, Ireland
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Joiner A, Fernandez AR, Van Vleet L, Cabañas JG, Grover J, Godfrey A, Crowe R, Staton C, Pavon J. Predictors of Non-Transport for Older Adult EMS Patients Encountered for Falls. PREHOSP EMERG CARE 2022; 27:859-865. [PMID: 36251394 DOI: 10.1080/10903127.2022.2137744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emergency medical services (EMS) encounters for falls among older adults have been linked to poor outcomes when the patient is not transported by EMS to a hospital. However, little is known regarding characteristics of this patient population. Our primary objective was to describe characteristics associated with non-transport among older adult EMS patients encountered for falls. METHODS We performed a national retrospective cross-sectional study of 9-1-1 patient contacts from the 2019 ESO Data Collaborative. We included patients who had 9-1-1 encounters for ground-level falls and were aged 60 years or older. Patients residing in congregate living facilities, interfacility transports, cardiac arrests, and suspected drowning patients were excluded. Potential predictors of non-transport included patient demographics, initial vital signs, who requested 9-1-1 service, incident location, alcohol/substance use, and urbanicity. We used multivariable logistic regression to determine associations between non-transport and potential predictors. RESULTS We identified 195,204 EMS encounters for older adults who fell in 2019, including 27,563 (14.1%) non-transports. Most patients were female (62.4%), non-Hispanic White (85.4%), and fell at a home or residence (80.4%). Greater odds of non-transport were identified among males (OR 1.37, 95% CI 1.32-1.42) and Hispanic/Latino patients (OR 1.24, 95% CI 1.14-1.35). Older age was associated with greater odds of non-transport compared to patients aged 60-69 years (70-79 [OR 1.42, 95% CI 1.35-1.49], 80-89 [OR 1.51, 95% CI 1.42-1.59], ≥90 [OR 1.45, 95% CI 1.35-1.55]). Patients residing in Census tracts with larger percentages of the population living in poverty had lower odds of non-transport compared to those in areas with ≤5% in poverty (6-15% poverty [OR 0.82, 95% CI 0.78-0.84), 15-25% poverty [OR 0.78, 95% CI 0.73-0.82], and >25% poverty [OR 0.78, 95% CI 0.72-0.84]). CONCLUSION Males, older age groups, and Hispanic/Latino patients had higher odds of non-transport among this population of community-dwelling adults age 60 or greater. These findings may inform development of future targeted falls-related mobile integrated health or community paramedic services and referrals to community intervention programs. Future work is needed to understand underlying patient and clinician perspectives driving non-transport decisions among these patients to better equip EMS clinicians with tools and information on tailored risk/benefit discussions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anjni Joiner
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
- Durham County Emergency Medical Services, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Lee Van Vleet
- Durham County Emergency Medical Services, Durham, NC, USA
| | - José G Cabañas
- Wake County Emergency Medical Services, Raleigh, NC, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Joseph Grover
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Andrew Godfrey
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
- Wake County Emergency Medical Services, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | | | - Catherine Staton
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Juliessa Pavon
- Division of Geriatrics, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
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Alberto SN, Ansai JH, Janducci AL, Florido JVB, Novaes ADC, Caetano MJD, Rossi PG, Tavares LRC, Lord SR, Gramani-Say K. A Case Management Program at Home to Reduce Fall Risk in Older Adults (the MAGIC Study): Protocol for a Single-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Res Protoc 2022; 11:e34796. [PMID: 35700005 PMCID: PMC9237774 DOI: 10.2196/34796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Individual case management programs may be particularly effective in reducing fall risk as they can better identify barriers and facilitators to health recommendations. Objective This paper describes the protocol for a single-blind, parallel-group randomized controlled trial that aims to investigate the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a home-based multifactorial program targeting fall risk factors among people aged 60 years and over who have fallen at least twice in the past 12 months (the MAGIC trial). Methods Older people with a history of at least 2 falls in the last year will be divided into 2 groups. The intervention group will receive case management at home for reducing the risk of falls, including a multidimensional assessment, explanation of fall risk factors, and elaboration and monitoring of an individualized intervention plan based on the identified fall risk factors, personal preferences, and available resources. The control group will be monitored once a month. Assessments (clinical data, fall risk awareness, physical and mental factors, safety at home, feet and shoes, and risk and rate of falls) will be carried out at baseline, after 16 weeks of the intervention, and at the posttrial 6-week and 1-year follow-up. After 16 weeks of the intervention, satisfaction and adherence to the intervention will also be assessed. Economic health will be evaluated for the period up to the posttrial 1-year follow-up. Results Data collection started in April 2021, and we expected to end recruitment in December 2021. This case management program will address multifactorial assessments using validated tools and the implementation of individualized intervention plans focused on reducing fall risk factors. Conclusions This trial may provide reliable and valuable information about the effectiveness of case management for increasing fall risk awareness and reducing fall risk in older people. Trial Registration Brazilian Clinical Trials Registry (ReBec) RBR-3t85fd; https://ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-3t85fd International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/34796
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Juliana Hotta Ansai
- Department of Gerontology, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Ana Luísa Janducci
- Department of Gerontology, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Paulo Giusti Rossi
- Department of Physiotherapy, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Stephen Ronald Lord
- Australia and School of Public Health & Community Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Karina Gramani-Say
- Department of Gerontology, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, Brazil
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Ming Y, Zecevic AA, Hunter SW, Miao W, Tirona RG. Medication Review in Preventing Older Adults' Fall-Related Injury: a Systematic Review & Meta-Analysis. Can Geriatr J 2021; 24:237-250. [PMID: 34484506 PMCID: PMC8390322 DOI: 10.5770/cgj.24.478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Medication review is essential in managing adverse drug reactions and improving drug safety in older adults. This systematic review evaluated medication review's role as a single intervention or combined with other interventions in preventing fall-related injuries in older adults. Methods Electronic databases search was conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and CINAHL. Two reviewers screened titles and abstracts, reviewed full texts, and performed data extraction and risk of bias assessment. Meta-analyses were conducted on studies with similar participants, interventions, outcomes or settings. Results Fourteen randomized, controlled studies were included. The pooled results indicated that medication review as a stand-alone intervention was effective in preventing fall-related injuries in community-dwelling older adults (Risk Difference [RD] = -0.06, 95% CI: [-0.11, -0.00], I2 = 61%, p = .04). Medication review also had a positive impact on decreasing the risk of fall-related fractures (RD = -0.02, 95% CI: [-0.04, -0.01], I2 = 0%, p = .01). Discussion This systematic review and meta-analysis has demonstrated that medication review is effective in preventing fall-related injuries in general, and fractures specifically, in community-dwelling older adults. Future investigations focusing on the process of performing medication review will further inform fall-related injury prevention for older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Ming
- Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, School of Health Studies, Western University, London, ON
| | | | - Susan W Hunter
- School of Physical Therapy, Western University, London, ON
| | - Wenxin Miao
- School of Information and Media Studies, Western University, London, ON
| | - Rommel G Tirona
- School of Physiology and Pharmacology, Western University, London, ON
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Cao S, Huang H, Xiao M, Yan L, Xu W, Tang X, Luo X, Zhao Q. Research on safety in home care for older adults: A bibliometric analysis. Nurs Open 2021; 8:1720-1730. [PMID: 33626246 PMCID: PMC8186682 DOI: 10.1002/nop2.812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM This study aimed to describe and visualize the current research state and collaborative networks in home care safety for older adults over the past 11 years to analyse the gaps of research and future research trends. BACKGROUND The amount of research on safety in home care for older adults is increasing. It is necessary to understand the status of development and main research topics and identify the main contributors and their relationships. METHODS A total of 2,631 publications were retrieved from the Web of Science. The external characteristics of the publications were summarized with the Web of Science and Histcite. Collaborative networks and keywords were analysed and visually displayed using analysis tools. RESULTS The number of articles increased over the years. Articles were identified from 79 countries, 3,630 institutions, 647 journals and 11,691 authors, and complex cooperative relations among them and five research topics were identified. CONCLUSION Research on home care safety for older adults is developing steadily, and this field may be understood to a greater extent in the future. Countries, institutions and scholars need to cooperate more in this research field. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING MANAGEMENT This study contributes important information for understanding achievements in the research field of home care safety and provides insights into future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Songmei Cao
- School of NursingChongqing Medical UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Huanhuan Huang
- Department of NursingThe First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Mingzhao Xiao
- Department of UrologyUrologistThe First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Lei Yan
- Department of NursingThe Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu UniversityJiangsuChina
| | - Wenxin Xu
- School of NursingChongqing Medical UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Xumeng Tang
- School of NursingChongqing Medical UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Xiaoqin Luo
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck SurgeryHospital (T.C.M) affiliated to southwest medical universityLuzhouChina
| | - Qinghua Zhao
- Department of NursingThe First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical UniversityChongqingChina
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Fear of Falling, Recurrence of Falls, and Quality of Life in Patients with a Low Energy Fracture-Part II of an Observational Study. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 57:medicina57060584. [PMID: 34200303 PMCID: PMC8226509 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57060584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background and objective: Falls in elderly cause injury, mortality, and loss of independence, making Fear of Falling (FoF) a common health problem. FoF relates to activity restriction and increased fall risk. A voluntary intervention including fall risk assessment and prevention strategies was implemented to reduce falls in elderly patients with low energy fractures (LEF). The primary purpose of this study was to evaluate FoF and the number of subsequent falls in trauma patients one year after a LEF. The secondary aim was to examine how FoF affects patients' lives in terms of Quality of Life (QoL), mobility, and activity levels. Finally, participation in the voluntary fall prevention program (FPP) was evaluated. Materials and Methods: Observational cohort study in one Swiss trauma center. LEF patients, treated between 2012 and 2015, were analyzed one year after injury. Primary outcomes were Falls-Efficacy Score-International (FES-I) and number of subsequent falls. Secondary outcomes were EuroQoL-5-Dimensions-3-Levels (EQ5D-3L), mobility, activity levels, and participation in the FPP. Subgroup analysis was performed for different age categories. Results: 411 patients were included for analysis. Mean age was 72 ± 9.3, mean FES-I was 21.1 ± 7.7. Forty percent experienced FoF. A significant negative correlation between FoF and QoL (R = 0.64; p < 0.001) was found. High FoF correlated with lower activity levels (R= -0.288; p < 0.001). Six percent visited the FPP. Conclusions: At follow-up, 40% suffered from FoF which seems to negatively affect patients' QoL. Nevertheless, participation in the FPP was low. Simply informing patients about their susceptibility to falls and recommending participation in FPPs seems insufficient to motivate and recruit patients into FPPs. We suggest implementing repeated fall risk- and FoF screenings as standard procedures in the follow-up of LEF, especially in patients aged over 75 years.
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Bonner M, Capsey M, Batey J. A paramedic's role in reducing number of falls and fall-related emergency service use by over 65s: a systematic review. Br Paramed J 2021; 6:46-52. [PMID: 34335100 PMCID: PMC8312361 DOI: 10.29045/14784726.2021.6.6.1.46] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Around 10–25% of emergency calls for adults aged over 65 are attributed to falls. Regardless of whether injuries are caused, quality of life is often affected by fear of falling, leading to reduced confidence and activity, negatively impacting mobility and risking depression and isolation. Ambulance service staff are well placed to identify falls risk factors so patients can be directed to falls prevention services. This article aims to determine how the referral by paramedics of uninjured falls patients to community falls services may reduce future falls and emergency services use. Methods: The CINAHL, MEDLINE and AMED electronic databases, grey literature sources and reference lists of relevant papers were systematically searched to identify primary research of an experimental design. Studies were eligible if they included elderly patients, aged over 65, who had received a paramedic response following a fall, were found to be uninjured and who were referred to local falls services rather than being transported to hospital. The study outcomes were required to include the rate of subsequent falls and emergency service use. Results: Four papers from three studies were included in the review following quality assessment. Results were not always statistically significant but showed a reduction in subsequent falls, particularly in the high-risk population, and in emergency service call-outs. A consistent positive effect was seen on the patients’ well-being and independence related to activities of daily living across the studies. Conclusions: The relationship between paramedics and local falls services has changed the pre-hospital management of these patients. Generally, access to a falls-specific care package has proved beneficial in supporting independence and reducing unnecessary transport to hospital. Further research into the uptake of this care pathway by paramedics now it is more established may be useful, as would research into barriers to adherence of the elderly to such an intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mhairi Bonner
- West Midlands Ambulance Service University NHS Foundation Trust
| | - Matt Capsey
- Teesside University ORCID iD: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3659-5344
| | - Jo Batey
- South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
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Alternatives to direct emergency department conveyance of ambulance patients: a scoping review of the evidence. Scand J Trauma Resusc Emerg Med 2021; 29:4. [PMID: 33407771 PMCID: PMC7789540 DOI: 10.1186/s13049-020-00821-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The role of ambulance services is shifting, due in part to more intermediate, non-urgent patients who do not require direct emergency department conveyance, yet who cannot be safely left at home alone. Evidence surrounding the safety, effectiveness and efficiency of alternate care routes is not well known. Methods This scoping review sought to identify all studies that examined alternate routes of care for the non-urgent “intermediate” patient, as triaged on scene. Search terms for the sample (ambulances, paramedics, etc.) and intervention (e.g. referrals, alternate care route, non-conveyance) were combined. Articles were systematically searched using four databases and grey literature sources (February 2020). Independent researchers screened title-abstract and full text stages. Results Of 16,037 records, 41 examined alternate routes of care after triage by the on-scene paramedic. Eighteen articles considered quantitative patient data, 12 studies provided qualitative perspectives while 11 were consensus or opinion-based articles. The benefits of alternative schemes are well-recognised by patients, paramedics and stakeholders and there is supporting evidence for a positive impact on patient-centered care and operational efficiency. Challenges to successful use of schemes included: patient safety resulting from incorrect triage decisions, inadequate training, lack of formal partnerships between ambulance and supporting services, and insufficient evidence to support safe implementation or continued use. Studies often inaccurately defined success using proxies for patient safety (e.g. decision comparisons, rates of secondary contact). Finally, patients expressed willingness for such schemes but their preference must be better understood. Conclusions This broad summary offers initial support for alternate routes of care for intermediate, non-urgent patients. Even so, most studies lacked methodologically rigorous evidence and failed to evaluate safe patient outcomes. Some remedies appear to be available such as formal triage pathways, targeted training and organisational support, however there is an urgent need for more research and dissemination in this area.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The aims of this review are to summarize current performance for osteoporosis quality measures used by Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) for pay-for-performance programs and to describe recent quality improvement strategies around these measures. RECENT FINDINGS Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information (HEDIS) quality measures for the managed care population indicate gradual improvement in osteoporosis screening, osteoporosis identification and treatment following fragility fracture, and documentation of fall risk assessment and plan of care between 2006 and 2016. However, population-based studies suggest achievement for these process measures is lower where reporting is not mandated. Performance gaps remain, particularly for post-fracture care. Elderly patients with increased comorbidity are especially vulnerable to fractures, yet underperformance is documented in this population. Gender and racial disparities also exist. As has been shown for other areas of health care, education alone has a limited role as a quality improvement intervention. Multifactorial and systems-based interventions seem to be most successful in leading to measurable change for osteoporosis care and fall prevention. Despite increasing recognition of evidence-based quality measures for osteoporosis and incentives to improve upon performance for these measures, persistent gaps in care exist that will require further investigation into sustainable and value-adding quality improvement interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- S French
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of California, 4150 Clement St, Rm 111R, San Francisco, CA, 94121, USA
| | - S Choden
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of California, 4150 Clement St, Rm 111R, San Francisco, CA, 94121, USA
| | - Gabriela Schmajuk
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of California, 4150 Clement St, Rm 111R, San Francisco, CA, 94121, USA.
- Philip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Rheumatology Section, Medical Service, San Francisco VA Hospital, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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Hopewell S, Copsey B, Nicolson P, Adedire B, Boniface G, Lamb S. Multifactorial interventions for preventing falls in older people living in the community: a systematic review and meta-analysis of 41 trials and almost 20 000 participants. Br J Sports Med 2019; 54:1340-1350. [PMID: 31434659 PMCID: PMC7606575 DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2019-100732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Objective To assess the longer term effects of multifactorial interventions for preventing falls in older people living in the community, and to explore whether prespecific trial-level characteristics are associated with greater fall prevention effects. Design Systematic review with meta-analysis and meta-regression. Data sources MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINHAL, CENTRAL and trial registries were searched up to 25 July 2018. Study selection We included randomised controlled trials (≥12 months’ follow-up) evaluating the effects of multifactorial interventions on falls in older people aged 65 years and over, living in the community, compared with either usual care or usual care plus advice. Review methods Two authors independently verified studies for inclusion, assessed risk of bias and extracted data. Rate ratios (RaR) with 95% CIs were calculated for rate of falls, risk ratios (RR) for dichotomous outcomes and standardised mean difference for continuous outcomes. Data were pooled using a random effects model. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation was used to assess the quality of the evidence. Results We included 41 trials totalling 19 369 participants; mean age 72–85 years. Exercise was the most common prespecified component of the multifactorial interventions (85%; n=35/41). Most trials were judged at unclear or high risk of bias in ≥1 domain. Twenty trials provided data on rate of falls and showed multifactorial interventions may reduce the rate at which people fall compared with the comparator (RaR 0.79, 95% CI 0.70 to 0.88; 20 trials; 10 116 participants; I2=90%; low-quality evidence). Multifactorial interventions may also slightly lower the risk of people sustaining one or more falls (RR 0.95, 95% CI 0.90 to 1.00; 30 trials; 13 817 participants; I2=56%; moderate-quality evidence) and recurrent falls (RR 0.88, 95% CI 0.78 to 1.00; 15 trials; 7277 participants; I2=46%; moderate-quality evidence). However, there may be little or no difference in other fall-related outcomes, such as fall-related fractures, falls requiring hospital admission or medical attention and health-related quality of life. Very few trials (n=3) reported on adverse events related to the intervention. Prespecified subgroup analyses showed that the effect on rate of falls may be smaller when compared with usual care plus advice as opposed to usual care only. Overall, heterogeneity remained high and was not explained by the prespecified characteristics included in the meta-regression. Conclusion Multifactorial interventions (most of which include exercise prescription) may reduce the rate of falls and slightly reduce risk of older people sustaining one or more falls and recurrent falls (defined as two or more falls within a specified time period). Trial registration number CRD42018102549.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally Hopewell
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Bethan Copsey
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Philippa Nicolson
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Busola Adedire
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Graham Boniface
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Sarah Lamb
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Hopewell S, Adedire O, Copsey BJ, Boniface GJ, Sherrington C, Clemson L, Close JCT, Lamb SE. Multifactorial and multiple component interventions for preventing falls in older people living in the community. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2018; 7:CD012221. [PMID: 30035305 PMCID: PMC6513234 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd012221.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 179] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Falls and fall-related injuries are common, particularly in those aged over 65, with around one-third of older people living in the community falling at least once a year. Falls prevention interventions may comprise single component interventions (e.g. exercise), or involve combinations of two or more different types of intervention (e.g. exercise and medication review). Their delivery can broadly be divided into two main groups: 1) multifactorial interventions where component interventions differ based on individual assessment of risk; or 2) multiple component interventions where the same component interventions are provided to all people. OBJECTIVES To assess the effects (benefits and harms) of multifactorial interventions and multiple component interventions for preventing falls in older people living in the community. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Bone, Joint and Muscle Trauma Group Specialised Register, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, Embase, the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, trial registers and reference lists. Date of search: 12 June 2017. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised controlled trials, individual or cluster, that evaluated the effects of multifactorial and multiple component interventions on falls in older people living in the community, compared with control (i.e. usual care (no change in usual activities) or attention control (social visits)) or exercise as a single intervention. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently selected studies, assessed risks of bias and extracted data. We calculated the rate ratio (RaR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for rate of falls. For dichotomous outcomes we used risk ratios (RRs) and 95% CIs. For continuous outcomes, we used the standardised mean difference (SMD) with 95% CIs. We pooled data using the random-effects model. We used the GRADE approach to assess the quality of the evidence. MAIN RESULTS We included 62 trials involving 19,935 older people living in the community. The median trial size was 248 participants. Most trials included more women than men. The mean ages in trials ranged from 62 to 85 years (median 77 years). Most trials (43 trials) reported follow-up of 12 months or over. We assessed most trials at unclear or high risk of bias in one or more domains.Forty-four trials assessed multifactorial interventions and 18 assessed multiple component interventions. (I2 not reported if = 0%).Multifactorial interventions versus usual care or attention controlThis comparison was made in 43 trials. Commonly-applied or recommended interventions after assessment of each participant's risk profile were exercise, environment or assistive technologies, medication review and psychological interventions. Multifactorial interventions may reduce the rate of falls compared with control: rate ratio (RaR) 0.77, 95% CI 0.67 to 0.87; 19 trials; 5853 participants; I2 = 88%; low-quality evidence. Thus if 1000 people were followed over one year, the number of falls may be 1784 (95% CI 1553 to 2016) after multifactorial intervention versus 2317 after usual care or attention control. There was low-quality evidence of little or no difference in the risks of: falling (i.e. people sustaining one or more fall) (RR 0.96, 95% CI 0.90 to 1.03; 29 trials; 9637 participants; I2 = 60%); recurrent falls (RR 0.87, 95% CI 0.74 to 1.03; 12 trials; 3368 participants; I2 = 53%); fall-related hospital admission (RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.92 to 1.07; 15 trials; 5227 participants); requiring medical attention (RR 0.91, 95% CI 0.75 to 1.10; 8 trials; 3078 participants). There is low-quality evidence that multifactorial interventions may reduce the risk of fall-related fractures (RR 0.73, 95% CI 0.53 to 1.01; 9 trials; 2850 participants) and may slightly improve health-related quality of life but not noticeably (SMD 0.19, 95% CI 0.03 to 0.35; 9 trials; 2373 participants; I2 = 70%). Of three trials reporting on adverse events, one found none, and two reported 12 participants with self-limiting musculoskeletal symptoms in total.Multifactorial interventions versus exerciseVery low-quality evidence from one small trial of 51 recently-discharged orthopaedic patients means that we are uncertain of the effects on rate of falls or risk of falling of multifactorial interventions versus exercise alone. Other fall-related outcomes were not assessed.Multiple component interventions versus usual care or attention controlThe 17 trials that make this comparison usually included exercise and another component, commonly education or home-hazard assessment. There is moderate-quality evidence that multiple interventions probably reduce the rate of falls (RaR 0.74, 95% CI 0.60 to 0.91; 6 trials; 1085 participants; I2 = 45%) and risk of falls (RR 0.82, 95% CI 0.74 to 0.90; 11 trials; 1980 participants). There is low-quality evidence that multiple interventions may reduce the risk of recurrent falls, although a small increase cannot be ruled out (RR 0.81, 95% CI 0.63 to 1.05; 4 trials; 662 participants). Very low-quality evidence means that we are uncertain of the effects of multiple component interventions on the risk of fall-related fractures (2 trials) or fall-related hospital admission (1 trial). There is low-quality evidence that multiple interventions may have little or no effect on the risk of requiring medical attention (RR 0.95, 95% CI 0.67 to 1.35; 1 trial; 291 participants); conversely they may slightly improve health-related quality of life (SMD 0.77, 95% CI 0.16 to 1.39; 4 trials; 391 participants; I2 = 88%). Of seven trials reporting on adverse events, five found none, and six minor adverse events were reported in two.Multiple component interventions versus exerciseThis comparison was tested in five trials. There is low-quality evidence of little or no difference between the two interventions in rate of falls (1 trial) and risk of falling (RR 0.93, 95% CI 0.78 to 1.10; 3 trials; 863 participants) and very low-quality evidence, meaning we are uncertain of the effects on hospital admission (1 trial). One trial reported two cases of minor joint pain. Other falls outcomes were not reported. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Multifactorial interventions may reduce the rate of falls compared with usual care or attention control. However, there may be little or no effect on other fall-related outcomes. Multiple component interventions, usually including exercise, may reduce the rate of falls and risk of falling compared with usual care or attention control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally Hopewell
- University of OxfordNuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences (NDORMS)Botnar Research Centre, Windmill RoadOxfordOxfordshireUKOX3 7LD
| | - Olubusola Adedire
- OxehealthBiomedical EngineeringThe Sadler Building, Oxford Science Park, OxfordOxfordUKOX4 4GE
| | - Bethan J Copsey
- University of OxfordNuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences (NDORMS)Botnar Research Centre, Windmill RoadOxfordOxfordshireUKOX3 7LD
| | - Graham J Boniface
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology & Musculoskeletal Sciences (NDORMS), University of OxfordCentre for Rehabilitation Research in Oxford (RRIO)Botnar Research Centre, Windmill RoadOxfordUKOX3 7LD
| | - Catherine Sherrington
- School of Public Health, The University of SydneyMusculoskeletal Health SydneyPO Box 179Missenden RoadSydneyNSWAustralia2050
| | - Lindy Clemson
- The University of SydneyFaculty of Health SciencesEast St. LidcombeLidcombeNSWAustralia1825
| | - Jacqueline CT Close
- Neuroscience Research AustraliaFalls, Balance and Injury Research CentreBarker StRandwickAustraliaNSW 2031
| | - Sarah E Lamb
- University of OxfordNuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences (NDORMS)Botnar Research Centre, Windmill RoadOxfordOxfordshireUKOX3 7LD
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