PRIME Preoperative Risk Identification and Management in the Elderly

In this study, we are investigating ways to optimise the clinical care process for
patients undergoing lumbar spine surgery and the role of nurses in this process. The aim
of this optimisation is to reduce post-operative complications and improve clinical
outcomes. We are focusing in particular on vulnerable groups such as older adults.

In this exploratory study, we will focus on patients undergoing spinal surgery in order to:
2.1 Identify a vulnerability profile
 Research Question 1: Which patients have poorer functional outcomes following
spinal surgery (and are eligible for prehabilitation)?
2.2 Determining evidence-based core elements for a prehabilitation
programme for patients with an increased vulnerability profile
 Research question 2: Which evidence-based core elements for prehabilitation are applicable to
patients undergoing spinal surgery?
2.3 Gathering evidence to optimise (nursing) protocols
 OV 3 Which closure technique reduces the risk of wound infection?
 OV 4 At what stage of the patient’s care pathway is more appropriate pain monitoring required?
2.4 Exploring the practice and potential of various nursing roles
 OV 5 Which nursing roles are appropriate for improving clinical outcomes in
spinal surgery?
 OV 6 What changes to nursing education are appropriate to
prepare nurses for these roles?