Australasian journal on ageing
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To measure comprehensive medical assessment (CMA) completions among aged care residents in Australia; and to report the outcomes of a CMA service trial. ⋯ CMA rates are low. New approaches to achieving higher CMA rates, utilising information technology, hold promise. Strategies for ongoing monitoring of care to follow-up problems identified are required to achieve measurable improvements in residents' care and quality of life.
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To examine the utility of the Cornell scale for depression in dementia (CSDD), following its introduction as a routine measure in nursing homes. ⋯ Nursing homes need to document policies that will ensure best use is made of CSDD findings.
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To describe elderly patient transfers from residential aged care facilities (RACF) to hospital emergency departments (ED), and to estimate the proportion of transfers that may be avoidable with improved primary care service to RACF. ⋯ Evidence from multiple sources suggests that a meaningful proportion of transfers from RACF to ED may be avoided.
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To examine fall-related hospitalised morbidity in New South Wales (NSW) and to describe the pattern of fall-related major trauma presentations at a Level 1 Trauma Centre in NSW for younger and older fallers. ⋯ Falls, particularly for older individuals, are an important cause of serious injury, representing a considerable burden in terms of hospitalised morbidity.
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To explore the factors that influence the transfer of patients from residential aged care facilities (RACF) to hospital emergency departments (ED), and describe features of improved primary care in RACF that could result in reduced transfer. ⋯ The transfer of residents from RACF to ED is influenced by multiple interrelated factors, and strategies to reduce transfer should address these.