A Psychogeriatric Outreach Service to Nursing Homes in Sydney

Abstract

Objective: To describe nursing home referrals to a multidisciplinary psychogeriatric outreach aervice. Methods: Retrospective case note audit of all nursing home referrals to a psychogeriatric outreach service in Sydney during 1996. Results: Of 106 referrals (mean age 76.9 years) from 22 nursing homes, 101 (95%) were assessed in the home. Behavioural problems were identified in 87 referrals (82%), usually being associated with chronic organic brain syndromes including dementia (n = 75, 86%). Aggressive behaviours (45%), agitation (32%), uncooperativeness (17%) and vocally disruptive behaviour (16%) were the most frequently identified problems. Depression was diagnosed in 33 referrals (31%), often comorbid with dementia (n =16). Multiple diagnoses were present in 58 (55%) referrals. The most frequent treatment recommendations related to the use of nursing interventions (73%), psychotropic medication (70%), behavioural programs (29%) and family involvement (29%). Admission to the acute psychogeriatric ward occurred in 18 cases (17%). Conclusion: Psychogeriatric services should provide adequately staffed outreach teams to nursing homes. RESULTSDuring 1996, there were 106 referrals, of whom 67 were female, involving 97 residents (seven were referred twice, one three times) from 22 nursing

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