Neglect Assessment in Urban Emergency Departments and Confirmation by an Expert Clinical Team

Abstract

This study documents the underreporting of cases of neglect as evidenced by differences in diagnoses by screeners versus experts. The research assistants screened positive for neglect in 5% (N=22) of the 405 cases. The NAT made the diagnosis of neglect in 22% (86/389) of the cases. This markedly different rate of neglect may mean that ED screens are important but may underestimate the true number of cases. Conversely, an NAT may make the diagnosis of neglect in an older adult more often given a higher sensitivity and a more robust knowledge base of the problem.