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Cohort study
Among elderly residents of long term care facilities, a visit to the emergency department is associated with an increased risk of acquiring a new respiratory or gastrointestinal infection
  1. Gail Lusardi
  1. Correspondence to: Gail Lusardi
    Department of Health Sport and Science, University of Glamorgan, Pontypridd, CF37 1DL, UK

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Implications for practice and research

  • Further evaluation is needed of the consistency of application of Standard Infection Control Precaution guidelines/policies in the Emergency Department (ED).

  • Prospective studies are needed on assessment, novel strategies and use of resources to reduce ED visits in this group.

  • Microbiological evidence is required to quantify the risk of infection in the ED.

  • Elderly in long term care (LTC) facilities are at significant risk of infection from exposure in the ED.

  • The ED nurse needs to evaluate how to safely manage vulnerable groups to minimise the risk of healthcare …

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Footnotes

  • Competing interests None.