Predictors of length of stay in a geriatric assessment and rehabilitation unit.

Abstract

This study aimed to determine predictors of length of stay within a geriatric assessment and rehabilitation unit at Bundoora Extended Care Centre. We conducted a retrospective examination of demographic and medical characteristics of the patients, and the characteristics of admission care programs (assessment, rehabilitation, booked and emergency respite care, and interim care), and determinants and predictors of length of stay. The mean length of stay was 28 days, varying from 12 to 50 days between care programs. Diagnostic category, stream of care and activities of daily living score were the major predictors of length of stay, together accounting for 20 per cent of the variance (R2 = 0.20).