Learning Objective #1: Understand the importance of evaluating an elderly patient's functional status and quality of life before and after cardiac surgery

Learning Objective #2: Understand the various functioning levels among elderly awaiting cardiac surgery and particularly the differences between those awaiting surgery at home verses in-hospital

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Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) has become a major method of treatment for the elderly and as the population ages demands for cardiac surgery are increasing. Cardiac surgery in the elderly is complex, due to the high incidence of co-morbidities. This is not to say that elderly persons should not be given the option of cardiac surgery. However, as healthcare professionals we need to address the question of risk verses benefit; are the cardiac benefits realized at the detriment to other systems and the overall functional capability of the patient? There is evidence in the literature that functional status and quality of life measures can be used as significant predictors of success among elderly persons. More specifically, baseline functional status and quality of life measures are now viewed as reliable predictors of outcome following CABG.

This study provided quality of life and functional status to be closely examined using a descriptive, exploratory design. Ten elderly persons underwent intense testing, prior to, and six to ten weeks following CABG surgery. Functional status was examined using the Duke Activity Status Index, Physical Performance testing and the Six Minute Walk test. Quality of life was examined using the Nottingham Health Profile. This research provided insight into the physiological and psychological impact of cardiac surgery on these individuals. This research provides tools to the healthcare team to ensure appropriate pre-operative selection of the elderly patient and thus their long term success following CABG. This research will refine our knowledge of how therapeutic modalities are examined; therefore encouraging our nursing practice to change in order to provide elderly, who undergo cardiac surgery, the most optimal outcome.