Demographic aging is leading to an increase in the number of elderly patients admitted to intensive care units, where they are at risk of geriatric syndromes. This prospective, single-center pilot study shows that targeted training significantly improves the knowledge of staff, primarily nurses and paramedical personnel. These results support the value of continuing education in geriatrics, a finding that should be confirmed by multicenter studies.
Hypothyroidism is a common condition that can have serious consequences if left untreated. Adrenal insufficiency, on the other hand, is a rare condition that can be life-threatening if left untreated. Early initiation of treatment with L-thyroxine and hydrocortisone supplementation helps restore quality of life by eliminating the risks associated with these deficiencies. Managing this type of hormonal imbalance in patients with short bowel syndrome is a rare situation, and there are few clear guidelines regarding its treatment.
The importance of advanced practice nurses (APNs) in improving emergency care for patients with Alzheimer's disease is a reality. APNs play a crucial role by providing advanced clinical skills and an approach centered on Naomi Feil's Validation®, a non-pharmacological therapy. This method involves empathetic acknowledgment and affirmation of patients' emotions and experiences, which helps build a relationship of trust and address their specific needs. By collaborating with other healthcare professionals, APNs ensure high-quality care tailored to the emergency situations faced by vulnerable patients.
The proportion of older adults in emergency departments continues to rise, posing significant organizational and medical challenges. At Ambroise-Paré Hospital (AP-HP), where 21 % of the 40,000 annual visits involve patients over the age of 75, an innovative solution has been developed: the establishment of a geriatrician position dedicated to the emergency department. This article provides an overview of geriatric emergency care in France, the specific challenges of caring for older adults in emergency settings, and the experience with the program implemented at Ambroise-Paré since November 2022-including the creation of a fast-track, the daily presence of a geriatrician in the short stay unit (SSU), and strengthened coordination with the regional geriatric care network.
