Challenges in the Development and Implementation of Older Adult Trauma Prognostication Tools to Facilitate Shared Decision-Making

Older trauma patients (> 65 years old) have a higher risk of mortality compared to the younger trauma patient population.1 Still, greater than 50% survive to discharge and up to 85% of those return to prehospital or independent function.1,2 The 15% who do not fully recover to baseline present a unique challenge to the medical community. These patients have different anatomy, physiology, and decreased ability to recover from a traumatic event.3 Today's older aged adults value autonomy, engagement, and control over their lives.

Source: Journal of Surgical Research - June 8, 2021 Category: Surgery Authors: Rachel S. Morris, Terri A. deRoon-Cassini, Edmund H. Duthie, Christopher J. Tignanelli Tags: Editorial Source Type: research