New guidelines have been announced by the Australian and New Zealand Hip Fracture Registry Group. Recommendations include pain management, getting prompt access to surgery and the importance of rehabilitation following surgery. The guidelines are based on the latest evidence-based information developed to improve outcomes for hip fracture patients and have been approved by the National Health and Medical Research Council.
The recommendations give people the best chance of regaining independence and interventions to minimise the chance of future falls and fractures, according to Professor Jacqueline Close, from the Falls and Injury Prevention Group at Neuoscience Research Australia who led the production of the guidelines. “It is hoped the guidelines will pave the way for the development of national clinical standards for hip fracture care in Australia, Professor Close said.
Dr Paul Bates from the Bupa Health Foundation, who supported the development of the new guidelines, said it was an important step forward to address one of the problems of ageing that often goes under the radar. “Hip fractures and osteoporosis often contributes to a poor quality of life and can now be managed more effectively and with clear guidance.”
In the UK, the introduction of similar guidelines and standards for hip fracture care has led to significant improvements in outcomes for older people.