[Long-term hospitalization of elderly patients in a regional hospital].
Clinical characteristics of elderly patients who had been admitted in Sawauchi Hospital for more than 100 days between 1988 and 1992, were analyzed. The average hospital stay of inpatients was 38.0 days, and the longest hospitalization was observed at ages between 76 and 85 year old. During 4 years, there were 74 patients who were admitted for more than 100 days. Thirty-seven cases had serious and complicated conditions, while the remaining 37 cases did not have clear-cut reasons for such a long hospitalization. The latter group was significantly older than the former, and included more females (p < 0.01, respectively; the care-forcussed group). Clinical characteristics of the care-forcussed group were degenerative bone/joint diseases with long-standing pain and uncertain complaints such as autonomic nerve dysfunction. These patients were often admitted to the hospital repeatedly, particularly in winter. Patients with multiple cerebral infarction or chronic respiratory disorders were mostly males (p < 0.01). It is important to examine the clinical course and severity of elderly patients who are in hospital for long periods, particularly from the viewpoint of differentiating quality of treatment and care.
Takahashi
R
R
Sawauchi Hospital, Iwate Pref.
Okugawa
S
S
Matsushita
S
S
D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007564:Japan; D007902:Length of Stay / Q000639:trends*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012737:Sex Factors