Geriatric Patients
Geriatric patients also can be difficult. With adults
aged 75 years accounting for 27% of all ED visits,2
NPs should be aware of how to treat older patients
safely and effectively. This includes good
communication. Geriatric patients can, at times, be
confused and the ED environment, with its many people, unfamiliar equipment, and often loud noises,
can create or exacerbate confusion or agitation in the
geriatric patient. In this setting, it is essential that NPs
use good communication strategies. For older
patients, the NP must allow extra time; avoid
distractions; sit face to face; maintain eye contact;
listen; speak slowly, clearly, and loudly; use simple
words and short sentences; stick to one topic at a
time; simplify or write-down instructions; use charts,
models, and pictures; summarize important points;
and provide an opportunity to ask questions and
express themselves. Unclear communication can lead
to less than satisfactory results. Geriatric patients may
be facing multiple health issues, as well as hearing and
vision impairments. In addition, older patients may
be at risk for falls from hospital beds or from obstacles
they encounter while navigating through the ED.
Leaving a patient unattended or failing to provide
safety measures may lead to patient harm and charges
of negligence against the NP.