Journal of Advanced Practices in Nursing

Maertens B

Publications

• Research Article
  Vital Signs, the Magic Key in Preventing Hospitalization and Death in Nursing Home Residents Aged 65 and Older
  Author(s): Bonnez Y, Vermeiren S, Maertens B, Lauwers AN and Van Rompaey BBonnez Y, Vermeiren S, Maertens B, Lauwers AN and Van Rompaey B
  
  Aim: The purpose of this study was to develop a Geriatric Early Warning Instrument (GEWI) able to prematurely identify subtle physical changes that lead to negative health outcomes, such as hospitalization and death. Methodology: The study was a prospective cohort study where vital signs were assessed over a seven week period of time nursing home residents ages 65 and older living in Antwerp, Belgium. Furthermore, medical records were consulted to register the number of hospitalizations, deaths and Katz-scores. Findings: Residents encountering a negative outcome (hospitalization or death) had a lower mean systolic blood pressure and a lower blood oxygen level (p<0,05). In those residents, systolic blood pressure and blood oxygen level showed a significant but very weak correlation (0,30>r>-0,30). Systolic blood pressure, heart rate and.. Read More»
  

  Abstract PDF