Surgical Risk Factors in Geriatric Perioperative Patients

The geriatric population is growing in number, and risk factors commonly seen in this population of patients can seriously affect the outcomes of surgical interventions. Identification of surgical risk factors (eg, hearing and vision loss, inadequate nutrition, preexisting conditions) and early intervention by the perioperative nurse to plan for, correct, or accommodate physical limitations often can minimize or eliminate problems and potential complications.