Subsequent Fracture Prevention in Patients 50 Years and Older With Fragility Fractures: A Quality Improvement Initiative

J Healthc Qual. 2019 Jan/Feb;41(1):17-22. doi: 10.1097/JHQ.0000000000000133.

Abstract

Because of osteoporosis, patients older than 50 years with fragility fractures are at risk of further fractures. We developed a quality improvement initiative based on an evidence-based Fracture Liaison Service (FLS) model of care to help prevent subsequent fractures. Previous to the implemented FLS model, less than 13% of patients with fragility fractures were assessed for osteoporosis at our institution. We created a registry tool to identify patients with fractures who were older than 50 years. Our interventions focused on identifying, contacting, and educating patients; and coordinating screening tests and an outpatient follow-up visit with an endocrinologist. Identification of patients older than 50 years with fragility fractures increased from 0% to 74.5%, with implementation of the fracture registry. Of those identified, 33.9% were screened and had a follow-up visit. The fragility fracture population older than 50 years is at risk of subsequent fractures and should be identified, contacted, educated, screened, and assessed for osteoporosis to prevent subsequent fractures.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Delivery of Health Care / standards*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Nursing Care / standards*
  • Osteoporosis / complications*
  • Osteoporotic Fractures / nursing*
  • Osteoporotic Fractures / prevention & control*
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic*
  • Quality Improvement / organization & administration*