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Evaluation of Syncope in Older Adults
Teresita M Hogan1, Stephen Tyler Constantine2, Aoko Doris Crain2
1Geriatric Emergency Medicine, University of Chicago Medicine, 5841 S Maryland Avenue, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
Emergency Medicine Clinics of North America
|August 1, 2016
Summary
Evaluating syncope in older adults presents unique challenges for emergency physicians. Developing preset protocols is crucial for effective, multidisciplinary care and optimal patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Geriatrics
- Emergency Medicine
- Cardiology
Background:
- Syncope evaluation in older adults is complex for emergency physicians.
- Requires specialized knowledge of geriatric issues and resource management.
- Multidisciplinary follow-up services are often necessary.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the challenges of syncope evaluation in the elderly.
- To emphasize the need for integrated institutional resources and protocols.
- To guide emergency physicians in managing syncope in older patients.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical challenges in geriatric syncope.
- Discussion of necessary resources like medication review.
- Emphasis on multidisciplinary care coordination.
Main Results:
- Syncope in older adults demands significant clinical skill and patience.
- Effective evaluation necessitates careful resource identification and linkage to follow-up services.
- Alignment of institutional resources with emergency department needs is vital.
Conclusions:
- Preset protocols are recommended for efficient syncope management in older adults.
- Emergency physicians must integrate administrative and clinical skills for optimal care.
- Continuous improvement in syncope care for the elderly is essential.
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