[Intensive care of elderly patients : Core nursing responsibilities and central care priorities]

Older adults represent a growing and highly vulnerable intensive care unit (ICU) population due to geriatric syndromes, functional decline, and multimorbidity. These factors increase the complexity of care and require nursing interventions that support functional stability, prevent complications and address age-related needs.

To summarize key care components relevant for older ICU patients and to identify the core nursing responsibilities within these care structures.

A systematic literature search in PubMed (U.S. National Library of Medicine) and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) identified 11 studies and recommendations addressing the care of critically ill adults aged ≥ 65 years. Relevant care components were thematically clustered and the associated nursing responsibilities narratively synthesized.

Several central care priorities were identified, including delirium and cognitive management, pain management, early mobilization, geriatric assessment, nutritional support and medication management, and sleep/comfort support. These components can be grouped into thematic clusters that highlight the central role of nursing in continuous monitoring, nonpharmacological interventions, functional support, and contributing to clinical decision-making.

Age-friendly ICU concepts may support functional preservation and reduce complications such as delirium. Structured, evidence-based processes and clearly defined nursing roles are essential for high-quality, age-appropriate care of older intensive care patients.