Optimizing reserve in hospitalized elderly.
Aging is a multidimensional process that involves the physical, psychosocial, and spiritual domains. The reserves in each of these areas are challenged during the stressful experience of acute and critical care illness and hospitalization. It is imperative that hospital nursing staff recognize the vulnerability of the elderly and take appropriate evidence-based interventions to prevent avoidable decline and deterioration. There are opportunities for nurses to strengthen reserve in the elderly in the areas of practice, research, education, and policy.
Fletcher
Kathleen
K
University of Virginia Health System, 2071 McKim Hall, P.O. Box 800566, Charlottesville, VA 22908-0566, USA. krf8d@virginia.edu
D000368:Aged; D000375:Aging / Q000502:physiology*; D016638:Critical Illness; D015577:Geriatric Assessment; D005851:Geriatric Nursing; D006749:Hospital Design and Construction; D006760:Hospitalization; D006801:Humans; D007049:Iatrogenic Disease / Q000517:prevention & control; D012449:Safety