Clinical Scorecard: Emergency Rooms Lack Adequate Resources for Dementia Patients

At a Glance

Key Highlights

• Patients with dementia face increased risks in emergency care, including long hospital stays and readmissions.
• Emergency care for dementia patients often exacerbates confusion and agitation.
• Minor changes in ED processes can significantly improve patient experiences.
• Current guidelines for dementia care in EDs are limited and often overlook specific needs.
• Caregiver involvement is crucial for effective management of dementia patients in emergency settings.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

• Screen for dementia in older adults presenting to the ED.

Management

• Encourage caregivers to stay with patients and actively involve them in care decisions.
• Provide quiet spaces for patients to wait.

Monitoring & Follow-up

• Assess and manage pain effectively.
• Keep patients oriented to time and place.

Risks

• Patients with dementia are at risk for problematic emergency care outcomes, including increased mortality.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Elderly patients with dementia requiring emergency care.

IV antibiotics may be used to distract patients while waiting for results, though this should be carefully considered.

Clinical Best Practices

• Train staff to communicate effectively with dementia patients and their caregivers.
• Implement structural changes in EDs to accommodate the needs of dementia patients.

References

• Dementia Australia Research Foundation
• American College of Emergency Physicians