FACTORS PREDICTING OUTCOME AT 6 MONTHS IN PATIENTS OVER 75 ADMITTED FOR EMERGENCY CARE

A sample of 199 elderly patients (over 75) admitted to emergency care sections of the Marne's (French department) public hospitals were moni tored over six months. The purpose of this study was to assess the fac tors predicting death or institutionization of elderly patients, in or der to improve patient care. Surveys were carried out to collect infor mation on health, standards of living, family surrounding and backgrou nd, social support and level of dependence. After 6 months, 63 (32 %) have died and 19 (12.5 %) have been directed to institutions. Risk of death factors are primarily connected with the environment. The risk w as multiplied by three for patients placed in institutions and absence of children's visit increased the risk by seven. Dependence was also a risk factor. On the other hand, age and clinical diagnosis had littl e effect. Risk factors for institutionalization were admission over th e week end (OR=29), non-accompanied (OR=31), altered mental abilities (OR=24), absence of children's visit (OR=22). These predictors will re nder possible the rapid identification of high risk patients in every day practice. The improvement of gerontological competences in emergen cy care sections should enable quicker, more inclusive and adapted car e. Measures to stimule or substitute for the failing natural relationa l network of elderly patients are also needed.