Patient perceptions and experiences with falls during hospitalization and after discharge.

AIMS: The aim of this study was to describe hospitalized older adults' (> 60years) perceptions about (1) their fall risks while hospitalized; (2) fall prevention interventions received while hospitalized; and (3) fall prevention discharge instructions. BACKGROUND: Little is known about hospitalized older adults' perceptions regarding fall prevention interventions received during hospitalization and fall prevention discharge instructions. METHODS: This is a prospective, exploratory study using qualitative methods. RESULTS: This paper reports qualitative findings of patients' perspectives on fall prevention interventions during hospitalization and at discharge. Eight major themes supported by multiple minor themes emerged: overall perceptions of falling; overall perceptions of fall prevention interventions while hospitalized; "telling" fall prevention; "doing" fall prevention; effectiveness of fall prevention strategies; personal fall prevention strategies; fall-related discharge instructions; and most effective fall-related discharge instructions. CONCLUSIONS: Findings suggest healthcare providers need to more fully engage patients and families in understanding fall prevention interventions and factors contributing to falls during hospitalization and at discharge.

Protocol for outpatient screening and initiation of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion therapy: impact on cost and quality.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of a screening protocol in identifying subjects who would initiate continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) and continue the therapy for at least 2 1/2 years. METHODS: One hundred four subjects were recruited to participate in a screening protocol involving a mock trial of insulin pump use. Participants who initiated CSII were followed for 2 1/2 years; those deemed ill suited for CSII used multiple insulin injections. Discontinuation rates, quality of life, and costs were evaluated for subjects using CSII. Baseline and quarterly hemoglobin A1C (A1C) were measured and compared. RESULTS: The screening protocol identified 37 subjects (35.6%) who were unsuited for CSII. Subjects who initiated CSII reported enhanced quality of life and exhibited a low discontinuation rate (3.3%). No safety issues were encountered. Screening, CSII initiation, and follow-up were accomplished at lower costs per subject ($2431.50) than those reported in the Diabetes Control and Complications Trial (DCCT) ($8265.00). A1C was significantly lower over time for subjects receiving CSII compared with those receiving multiple injections. CONCLUSIONS: A structured screening protocol with trial pump use was effective in identifying individuals who would initiate CSII and continue the therapy for at least 2 1/2 years.