Zeitschrift für fortgeschrittene Praktiken in der Krankenpflege

Vital Signs, the Magic Key in Preventing Hospitalization and Death in Nursing Home Residents Aged 65 and Older

Abstract

Bonnez Y, Vermeiren S, Maertens B, Lauwers AN and Van Rompaey B

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.