Older adults (OA) are at risk for potential hazards of hospitalization, these include: immobility, delirium, medication side effects, malnutrition, pressure ulcers, procedures, peri- and postoperative periods, and hospital-acquired infections and more. Discuss in detail three potential hazards for this population while in the hospital and identify potential prevention strategies for each hazard.

 

Potential Hazards for Older Adults Hospitalization Outline

1. Introduction
   1. The medical care provided to older patients in hospitals must differ from that provided to younger people.
   2. Hospitalized older persons are at a higher risk of developing geriatric syndromes like delirium and falls due to their lower reserve capacity.
2. Deconditioning and Immobility
   1. During hospitalization, most of the time, about 20 hours each day, is spent in bed.
   2. Early and progressive mobilization can improve the length of stay.
   3. Improved mobility must begin the moment the patient enters the emergency department, at the very least by advocating the use of a bedside commode or escorting the patient to the bathroom rather than providing a bedpan or urinal.

• III. Catheter-Related Urinary Infections
  1. The indwelling urine catheter is a one-point restriction that restricts unrestricted movement.
  2. A traumatic urethral injury can occur due to indwelling urinary catheters implanted in the emergency room, operating room, or hospital wards.
  3. Since the patient risks limited mobility and a higher risk of catheter-related urine infections, an attempt to remove an indwelling urinary catheter should be made as soon as possible.
• IV. Adverse Drug Events due to Polypharmacy
  1. Polypharmacy is an increasing concern among older patients. It is the use of numerous medications or more pharmaceuticals that are medically unnecessary
  2. During hospitalization, all medication indications should be confirmed.