Short summary

Independence in daily activities is essential; however, after hip fracture surgery, older adults often experience a decline in the level of physical function. The project aims to bridge the gap between the primary and secondary sectors by implementing the measurement of vital signs and consistent rehabilitation. Besides improving physical function and quality of life, we expect the project to reduce mortality and re-admission rate.

Rationale

Despite implementing hospital quality programs after hip fracture surgery older adults often experience a decline in the level of physical function, reduced quality of life; and the mortality and readmission rates are high. Despite implementing hospital quality programs after hip fracture surgery older adults often experience a decline in the level of physical function, reduced quality of life; and the mortality and readmission rates are high.

Early mobilization is important in order to prevent loss of muscle mass; however to prevent morbidity an early start of strength training is also necessary. Furthermore, the risk of complications, morbidity, and mortality are associated with insufficient management of pain. Despite this, the primary and secondary sectors are inconsistent regarding measuring vital signs and rehabilitation, moreover, the rehabilitations programme does not include intensity and progression. In addition, the collaboration among the health professionals is lacking, just as the collaboration between the older adults and the health professionals. The latter regardless that older adults ask for involvement and responsibility.

Using an empowerment-oriented practice in a cross-sectorial programme including vital sign measurement and systematic progressive rehabilitation combined with convenient access for collaboration among professionals are implemented in the project.

Compared to usual practice the effect of the above-mentioned programme is unknown, and for that reason, the project is designed as a cluster-randomized stepped wedge study.

The project aims to examine the effect of measuring vital signs and consistent rehabilitation in the primary and secondary sectors in older adults after hip fracture surgery.

Description of the cohort

Older adults 65 years of age or older with a hip fracture, admitted to an orthogeriatric ward and citizens in one of three municipalities.

Participants are also the health professionals in the orthogeriatric ward and the three municipalities.

Data and biological material

Data is collected using physical tests and questionnaires.

Collaborating researchers and departments

Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kolding Hospital

• Associate Professor Bjarke Viberg, PhD

Research Unit of User Perspectives, University of Southern Denmark

• Associate Professor Birgitte Nørgaard, PhD

Department of Clinical Medicine

• Clinical Professor Charlotte Suetta, PhD