Implementation of pharmacogenetic testing in medication reviews in a hospital setting.

Aim: To investigate whether it is feasible to perform pharmacogenetic testing and implement the test results as part of medication reviews during hospitalization of multimorbid patients.

Methods: Patients with ≥2 chronic conditions and ≥5 regular drugs with at least one potential gene-drug interaction (GDI) were included from one geriatric and one cardiology ward for pharmacogenetic testing. After inclusion by the study pharmacist, blood samples were collected and shipped to the laboratory for analysis.

"What should I do when I get home?" treatment plan discussion at discharge between specialist physicians and older in-patients: mixed method study.

Background: During discharge from hospital, older patients and physicians discuss the plan for managing patients' health at home. If not followed at home, it can result in poor medication management, readmissions, or other adverse events. Comorbidities, polypharmacy and cognitive impairment may create challenges for older patients.

Delirium and cognitive impairment among older patients in Norwegian emergency departments.

Background: Delirium is common and underdiagnosed among patients in hospitals, and is associated with complications, increased mortality, onset of dementia and need for nursing home care. Cognitive impairment from other causes is also common among hospitalised elderly people and is a key risk factor for delirium. Since no relevant prevalence studies have been undertaken in Norwegian hospitals, we investigated the prevalence of delirium among elderly patients in Norwegian emergency departments on World Delirium Awareness Day, 14 March 2018.

Reduced sympathetic response to head-up tilt in subjects with mild cognitive impairment or mild Alzheimer's dementia.

Background: Hemodynamic control was compared in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or mild Alzheimer's dementia (AD) as well as in healthy elderly subjects.

Methods: Noninvasive, continuous hemodynamic recordings were obtained from 14 patients and 48 controls during supine rest (tilt of 30 and 70°). Cardiac output, end-diastolic volume, total peripheral resistance, heart rate variability (HRV), systolic blood pressure variability (SBPV), and baroreceptor sensitivity were calculated.

Fit elderly men can also stand: orthostatic tolerance and autonomic cardiovascular control in elderly endurance athletes.

Background And Aims: Endurance training may reduce orthostatic tolerance. Elderly people are prone to orthostatic intolerance, but the impact of endurance training in old age has been insufficiently explored.

Methods: 54 healthy men; 30 endurance athletes and 24 controls, free from medication and chronic diseases, were subjected to head-up tilt tests: 30º for 10 min and 70º for 40 min.

Medical findings in an interdisciplinary geriatric outpatient clinic specialising in falls.

Background: Falls are common among elderly people, leading to increased morbidity and reduced quality of life. A broad-based interdisciplinary study, for example in an outpatient clinic specialising in falls, has been recommended in light of the multiple and complex causes that tend to be involved. At present there are few outpatient clinics in Norway specialising in falls, and no data from such studies have yet been published.

Gender differences in orthostatic tolerance in the elderly.

Background: Gender differences in orthostatic tolerance in the elderly are poorly studied and understood.

Methods: 48 healthy elderly over 65 years (24 women), free from medication and without chronic diseases, were subjected to head-up tilt (HUT) tests: 30° for 10 min and 70° for 40 min. Blood pressures, stroke volume, total peripheral resistance, blood pressure variability, heart rate variability and baroreceptor sensitivity were measured and test terminations due to vasovagal syncope or unbearable presyncopal symptoms were registered.