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The approached is called ACE (Acute Care for the Elderly), which is a
nationally recognized model for preventing geriatric syndromes that can occur
during a hospitalization or upon return home because of the change of routine,
increased medications, reduced activity and other factors. In coordination with
the patient’s primary physician, the ACE team begins its work immediately upon
the patient’s hospital admission to reduce the risk of complications, such as
pressure ulcers, pneumonia, depression and confusion. Hudson Hospital & Clinics is
the first hospital in the region to offer an ACE program.
The ACE team: The ACE model of care provides a multidisciplinary team approach to
coordinated patient care.
This team will ensure your treatment and recovery is making the best possible
progress. -
Immediately
evaluates when the patient can return home – and how. By working on a
discharge plan from Day 1, the team can make sure the patient will have all the
information and resources needed to make a smooth transition back home or to
another care facility and optimize healing and recovery.
- Meets daily on
your behalf with your primary physician, geriatrician, physical, occupational and
recreational therapist, pharmacist, dietitian, social worker, care manager and
bedside registered nurse. Daily review by this team will ensure the patient is
making the best possible progress. Specifically, the team may review:
- Effects and interactions of prescribed medications
and supplements.
- Diet and nutrition to support the body’s healing and
maintenance.
- Medical equipment to assist with mobility and
function at home.
- Regularly
conferences with the patient’s family and develops personalized education
and instruction to better engage others in ensuring the patient’s best health.
Chats with the
patient. Friendly visits, with a well-trained ear, can detect signs of
loneliness, confusion or depression.
Encourages the patient to remain as physically and socially active as
possible, with the help of a therapeutic recreation specialist. Creating
routine for the mind and body through enjoyable activities promotes healing. At discharge, you will receive
special referral to resources and services based upon your individual needs. These resources and
services will help support your continued recovery and health upon leaving our
facility, and hopefully prevent a return trip back to the hospital.
To learn more about the ACE program, please contact Caroline Yoerg, RN,
clinical resource nurse, at Hudson Hospital & Clinics at (715) 531-6570.
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