The Guiding Principles for Creating Elder Friendly Hospitals The Principles - Suggested Initiatives to Guide - Back to Intro Page
	Guiding Principles for the Elder-Friendly Hospital/Facility FOR THE PATIENT Each patient is a unique individual and should be evaluated as such. Measures are taken to accommodate the patient and family’s special needs. FOR THE STAFF Nurses demonstrate clinical competence in geriatric nursing Nurses provide therapeutic response, patience and presence when caring for geriatric patients. Nurses and staff who provide direct care identify and address the patient’s individual needs and preferences.  Staff creates a positive experience for the patient and family.  Nurses coordinate care across the continuum and “Manage the Journey” of the patient and family. Excellent communication, tailored to meet the needs of the geriatric patient, results in a “Climate of Confidence” for the patient and the nurse.  The organization provides appropriate resources and systems that support best practice in geriatric nursing care. FOR THE ENVIRONMENT The physical environment supports the needs of the geriatric patient & family and the staff who care for them. An Elder-Friendly environment, as defined by the patient and family, also enhances the practice environment for staff.  The Elder-Friendly environment is embraced hospital-wide.
	Created by AONE, acting as an ANA/SNAPG association in the Nurse Competence in Aging Program.