2 * Understanding Frailty and Its Assessment by Local Doctors-a Survey

Abstract

Background: With an ageing population, recognition of frailty is evidently important. This allows for structured care and better outcomes in this vulnerable group. We conducted a survey to assess doctors' knowledge of frailty in a district general hospital. Sampling method: The questionnaire-based survey, consisting of 10 questions, was distributed by hand to clinicians of various grades in geriatrics and other specialties. It aimed to check understanding of frailty, prevalence in hospital, assessment tools, factors affecting outcomes and acceptability of frailty as a diagnosis on DNAR forms or death certificates.Responses from 31 geriatricians (consultants/registrars), 16 senior non geriatricians