New data leads to warning: Coronavirus patients often present without fever
By
Alicia Lasek
Mar 04, 2020
Cough and fever dominate the list of COVID-19 symptoms, but initial signs may be nonexistent, according to data from the outbreak’s first two months.
Missed opportunity: Patients fare poorly in long-term acute care hospitals
By
Alicia Lasek
Aug 27, 2019
Most patients who recover in long-term acute care hospitals die within five years. Some may be missing a chance for more appropriate end-of-life care.
COVID-19 a bigger threat to seniors than pneumonia, real-world study finds
By
Alicia Lasek
Feb 09, 2023
COVID-19 is much more deadly than bacterial or viral pneumonia, causing double the mortality rate in older, hospitalized adults, investigators say.
Clinical briefs for Monday, Dec. 12
By
Alicia Lasek
Dec 12, 2022
With repeal of Pentagon’s vaccine mandate, will CMS mandate remain a sure thing? … Hospital beds are 80% full nationwide, only 6% due to COVID … AHCA urges nursing homes to get involved in ’game-changing’...
CDC report: Cognitive disability tops list of disabilities in US adults
By
Donna Shryer
Jul 21, 2024
Cognitive disability emerged as the most prevalent disability in the United States in 2022, affecting 13.9% of adults. This is according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s annual update...
Ten-year stroke mortality higher among Black Medicare recipients
By
Alicia Lasek
Mar 22, 2021
A notable disparity in long-term death rates after ischemic stroke suggests that clinicians may need to take a closer look at the post-stroke recovery period — especially during the first year, researchers...
Clinical decisions for incapacitated elders often conflict with surrogates’ wishes, finds study
By
Alicia Lasek
Jun 11, 2020
While the overall amount of discord is concerning, residents from nursing homes stand out as the most likely to receive hospital care that aligns with surrogates’ goals, say investigators.
Study pinpoints mortality risk after major surgery for frail seniors with dementia
By
Alicia Lasek
Nov 29, 2022
Among frail seniors who had major surgery, 28% died in the following year. Mortality was even higher in those with dementia. The results may aid clinicians in counseling patients and their families about...
High optimism levels tied to ‘exceptional longevity’
By
Alicia Lasek (f3)
Jun 10, 2022
Optimism appears to promote good health and long lifespans across diverse racial and ethnic groups, according to a large study using data from the Women’s Health Initiative.
Physical, occupational therapy tied to better resident outcomes across all PALTC settings
By
Alicia Lasek
Apr 07, 2021
Most patients in post-acute care settings reap functional benefits and see reduced rehospitalization from physical therapy and occupational therapy, finds a new study across 1.4 million Medicare beneficiaries.