A new study from Redland Hospital has shown that early involvement of the Geriatric Emergency Department Initiative (GEDI) team is helping older patients receive safer, faster and more coordinated care.
The GEDI team is a group of nurses who work with doctors for older people. They check how an older patient is doing, help plan their care, and make sure they can go home safely.
The study, led by Clinical Nurse Kendall Williams, reviewed more than 1700 patients aged over 75 (or Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients over 55) who presented to Redland Hospital’s Emergency Department in the first half of 2023.
The results were clear: GEDI involvement shortened emergency wait times and reduced admissions for elderly patients. For those with cognitive impairment, GEDI involvement increased safe discharges home. Notably, the team ensured frailty was documented in almost every case.
Emergency Medicine Specialist Dr Henry Tsao said the findings showed the importance of tailoring emergency care for older people.
“Older patients often have complex needs, and coming to the Emergency Department can be overwhelming,” he said. “With the support of the GEDI team we can get the right supports in place, and make sure people can return home safely wherever possible.
“It means shorter stays, fewer admissions, and better outcomes for our patients.”
The research received funding from a Queensland Research Program Emergency Medicine Foundation grant.
The research will be showcased at the Bayside Health Service Research Symposium on 5 November 2025 at Redland Hospital. The one-day event, themed “Purpose-driven innovation: turning research into impact,” will feature oral and poster presentations, awards, and a keynote address by Professor Jed Duff.
Staff can attend in person at the UQ Tutorial Rooms, Weippin Street, Cleveland, or join online, with morning tea and lunch provided for those attending on site.