Note: Caroline Stephens, RN, PhD, is a CTSI K Scholar.
By Kate Darby Rauch via UCSF School of Nursing
In Caroline Stephens’ ideal world, frail nursing home residents would be a rare sight in emergency rooms (ERs), rather than the frequent visitors they are today. Many of the reasons for their ER visits are potentially preventable and can be safely managed without the trip to the hospital – a far safer, more comfortable option, says Stephens.
Stephens, who joined the faculty at UCSF School of Nursing last year, conducts research on how to improve medical care systems to minimize the need for frail older adults to make these disruptive trips to the hospital. She’s compelled to share and build her knowledge with future nurses, so they too can have an effect on geriatric care.
“I’ve always been passionate about engaging, educating and empowering nurses and other providers to better understand and address the complex physical and mental health needs of older adults,” she says.