31 Prolonged length of stay of older patients in the ED CHAPTER 2 Results Study population A total of 22,285 patients visited the ED in 2014. After exclusion of patients younger than 70 years old, 4,781 patients were eligible for the study. We sorted the patients on ascending patient identification number and selected the first 2,000 patients for inclusion in our study. While preparing the database, 92 patients were excluded for a variety of reasons (table 2). They were substituted by 92 other patients, who were again selected on ascending patient number. Our final study cohort consisted of 2,000 patients. Demographical-, organizational- and clinical characteristics of patients The mean age of patients was 78 years (SD 6.2 years). Half of the patients were male (n=1,048; 52%). Most patients had no diagnosis or signs of cognitive impairment (n=1,654; 83%). Polypharmacy existed in two-thirds of the patients (n=1,310; 66%) (table 3). Table 2 Exclusions. Number of patients Reason for exclusion 2 Missing LOS No LOS could be calculated, neither automatically nor manually. 2 Administrative mistake Patient was registered twice. 21 No or incomplete notes Missing notes. 26 Observation Patients kept for observation due to a medical reason or a delay in transfer or logistics. 26 Outpatient department (OPD) Patients primarily admitted to OPD for ophthalmology, oral and maxillofacial surgery or ENT. For administrative reasons these patients were registered at the ED, however consultation took place at OPD. 15 Proceeding in the ED Patients coming in for a small procedure not involving a physicians’ consult, e.g. changing or flushing a urinary catheter or cutting a ring. Total of 92 ED= Emergency department; LOS= Length of stay; OPD= Outpatient department; ENT= Ear nose throat
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