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An
holistic approach to patient care was introduced in a continuing care geriatric unit
during 1976-1977. During the previous 10 years of conventional care recordings of deaths
and discharges were as shown in the accompanying graph. With the introduction of holistic
care a TEN-fold rise in the discharge rate was achieved with very little change in the
death rate. |
The role of the geriatric unit changed from supporting the sick elderly to promoting the
quality of life before discharge from hospital. |
| Subsequently,
the holistic approach was introduced to another geriatric unit of 100 beds. The
accompanying graph shows that over a period of 7 years (1978-1985)the admissions increased
from 320 per annum to 960 per annum with the re-admission dropping from 30% to 5-6%. This
contributed to better use of the resource. |
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| The approach was cost effective and at the same time lifted the
morale of both the patients and the hospital staff. |
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