Improving the rate of frailty assessment within 24 hours of admission to Acute Medical Unit (AMU)
Care Process & Redesign
National Healthcare Innovation and Productivity Medals
National Healthcare Group
National University Health System
31 December 2021
Standardize frailty assessment for older patients admitted to AMU. Systematic frailty assessment ensures early intervention, improved performance, and better outcomes for older patients.
Year Submitted: 2021
Published Date: 31 December 2021
Tags: Care Process ＆ Redesign, Quality Improvement, Clinical Practice Improvement, Value Based Care, Length Of Stay, Discharge Planning, Access To Care, Readmission Rate
About this Content
Aims
Standardize frailty assessment for older patients admitted to AMU.
Background
Frailty leads to higher readmission rates, longer stays, and higher long-term care usage.
Methods
Introduced AMU Frailty Bundle, trained staff, implemented a ‘Check-and-Challenge’ structure, and increased awareness via posters.
Results
Frailty assessment completion within 24 hours improved; sustained performance despite initial resistance.
Conclusion
Systematic frailty assessment ensures early intervention, improved performance, and better outcomes for older patients.
Lessons Learnt
Flattening hierarchy and empowering junior staff enhances success; systematic approaches are cost-effective.
Keywords
Frailty Assessment, Acute Care, Clinical Practice Improvement, Ishikawa Diagram, Geriatric Medicine, Comprehensive Assessment
Innovators' Details
Innovators' Details
Healthcare Cluster(s) | National University Health System, National Healthcare Group |
Organization(s) Involved | National University Hospital |
Platform(s) | National Healthcare Innovation and Productivity Medals |
Healthcare Professional Group(s) | Medical |
Applicable Specialty or Discipline | Intensive Care Medicine, Geriatric Medicine |
Project Lead(s) | John Soong Tshon Yit |
Project Member(s) | Tan Bee Ngoh |
Connect with this contributor!
Dr John Soong Tshon Yit - john_soong@nuhs.edu.sg
Project Attachment
98_NUH_NHIP_2021_Improving_the_rate_of_frailty_assessment_within_24_hours_COMBINED.pdf