New ED protocol aims to better care for older patients at risk of falls and delirium

NCT ID NCT04068311

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested a two-step process to improve care for older adults in the emergency department. First, quick screening tests for fall risk, delirium, and frailty were used. Patients with concerning results were then placed in an observation unit for a full team assessment by geriatric specialists. The goal was to see if this approach could be put into practice and whether it improved patients' quality of life and daily function 90 days later.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Geriatric screening tools and multidisciplinary assessment protocol

What this could lead to

If successful, this approach could help emergency departments better identify and address fall risk, delirium, and frailty in older patients, potentially improving their quality of life and independence.

What could go wrong

This is an implementation study, not a treatment trial. It tests whether a new care process can be put into practice, not whether it directly improves health. Results may not apply to all hospitals.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

delirium

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center

    Columbus, Ohio, 43210, United States