Authors (including presenting author) :
Lam WC (1)
Affiliation :
(1)Princess Margaret Hospital
Keyword 1: :
OSTEOPOROTIC VERTEBRAL FRACTURE
Keyword 2: :
OSTEOPOROTIC VERTEBRAL FRACTURE PATHWAY
Introduction :
Osteoporotic vertebral fractures (OVF) are often under-recognized fragility fractures that lead to pain, reduced mobility, and a 20% risk of additional fractures within the first year. At Princess Margaret Hospital, while hip fracture programs have shown strong outcomes, OVFs, which account for about 15% of fragility fractures, have received insufficient attention.
Objectives :
This study aims to emphasize and empower the nursing role in providing comprehensive care to enhance secondary osteoporotic prevention, rehabilitation, and patient education within the OVF pathway.
Methodology :
Launched in August 2024, the pilot inpatient program recruited eligible patients from the acute orthopedic ward into the OVF pathway. This initiative empowered nurses to implement of key aspects of the care pathway, such as conducting thorough patient assessments, providing standardized pain management education, implementing fall prevention strategies, administering and educating on medications, and discharge planning . Upon discharge, these patients were provided with physiotherapists (PT) and occupational therapists (OT) , and anti-osteoporotic treatment. The nurse role inducted coordination with physicians, PT, and OT to ensure holistic care, with regular follow-ups arranged in the orthopedic clinic.
Result & Outcome :
From August 2024 to June 2025, 94 patients were recruited and evaluated based on readmission rates, repeated falls within one year after discharge, and fall risk assessments at 6 to 12 months. The expansion of nursing roles in the Osteoporotic Vertebral Fracture (OVF) pathway is vital for bridging acute care, secondary osteoporotic prevention, and long-term rehabilitation. Further development of liaison services combined with rehabilitation day centers is underway.
