Implementation of Vulnerable Elders Survey-13 Frailty Tool to Identify At-Risk Geriatric Surgical Patients.

Purpose: The primary purpose of this project was to preoperatively identify frail and vulnerable geriatric patients aged 65 or older using the Vulnerable Elders Survey (VES-13) tool, and to use those scores to assist with perioperative decision-making.

Design: This feasibility study was implemented as a quality improvement initiative with a postimplementation group only.

Methods: The VES-13 was introduced to the perioperative nursing staff and anesthesia providers and then added to the traditional preoperative assessment.