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The article discusses the nursing home admissions and role of physicians in the rehabilitation, medical care and end-of-life care of older patients in the U.S. Among the factors that led to delay in nursing home admission based on studies were comprehensive geriatric assessment and home visits to determine modifiable risk factors. The importance of recognizing risk factors for admission to planning for the future care needs of older adults is noted. Physicians are encouraged to advise prospective residents and their families to speak to staff and residents at nursing homes. It recommends the American Medical Directors Association (AMDA) as a resource for the continuing education of physicians in nursing home care.

Identifies patient characteristics predictive of 30-day mortality in nursing home residents with a lower respiratory tract infection (LRI). Design, setting, and patients in the study made in Missouri; Main outcome measures; Results; Conclusion that the research distinguishes those at relatively low risk for mortality due to LRI.