Geriatric Critical Care

Click the link to access the full PDF.

Olivia Geen MD, Bram Rochwerg MD MSc, Xuyi Mimi Wang MD MMEd, CMAJ. 2021;193:E1525-33.

Key points

• The integration of geriatric principles into routine care in the intensive care unit (ICU) should be considered as part of the comprehensive care of all older adults.

• Frailty is independently associated with a higher risk of dying in the ICU and should be identified early in admission, using the Clinical Frailty Scale, based on clinical status at least 2 weeks before the acute illness.

• The ABCDEF bundle should be used to help with prevention and treatment of delirium in older adults admitted to the ICU.

• Post–intensive care syndrome includes new or worsening cognitive, physical or mental health deficits, which can persist after ICU discharge.

• Older ICU survivors may benefit from physical rehabilitation, the use of an ICU diary, and integration of geriatric principles into routine post-ICU care.