The Frailty Syndrome Management in Geriatric Nursing

Abstract

Aim of the study: Evaluate frailty syndrome’s management in geriatric nursing. Objectives of the study: To describe frailty syndrome using scientific literature; to identify frailty management methods and their effectiveness used in practice; to evaluate the knowledge of nurses regarding frailty syndrome management in geriatric care. Research methods: Scientific literature analysis. A quantitative study was conducted using a semi-structured questionnaire and 30 nurses, who work in a geriatric unit were questioned. Statistical data analysis was done using “Excel” program. Conclusions: 1. Frailty syndrome is a condition that usually affects people over the age of 65, resulting in perpetual changes in the body, such as: mobility, muscle strength, balance, cognitive function, endurance, physical activity. As a result of these changes, frailty develops, which increases morbidity, disability, risk of falls, cognitive impairment, and the need for hospitalization until the last stage of development, death, is reached. 2. Management methods for frailty syndrome were identified: physical activities, nutrition and comprehensive geriatric assessment. From a few management methods that were listed most commonly used by nurses were: physical activity and nutrition. Physical activity was used more frequently than nutrition to manage frailty. The respondents gave no their own suggestions on what should be done to manage frailty syndrome. 3. The conducted research has revealed that the nurses in a geriatric unit do not know much about frailty, its assessment or management methods. Those nurses, who knew about frailty and its management revealed that they never use them. The only more known and used procedure was Edmonton’s Frailty Scale. Those who participated in this research have also evaluated EFS as a very effective assessment method. Nurses were also asked in what cases would they evaluate frailty syndrome and almost all of them have reported that they do not perform these assessments. Despite this, majority of the nurses responded that they would like to expand their knowledge on frailty syndrome.