Identifying Locations Where Self-Reported Dizziness Occurs In Patients With Vestibular Disorders In A Day Hospital Setting

Abstract

Abstract Background World falls guidelines recommended that where vestibular issues are identified such as Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), therapeutic interventions should always be sought, as potential benefits to health-related quality of life are high (Montaro-Odasso et al., 2022). Identifying potential BPPV in older adults, however, can be challenging, as many older adults experience BPPV as vague unsteadiness rather than dizziness, leading to under diagnosis of the condition (Li et al., 2023). This audit aimed to identify the locations where patients with self- reported dizziness and falls experienced dizziness, and if they subsequently were diagnosed with vestibular disorders. If potential high-risk locations for experiencing dizziness with vestibular issues are identified, this may aid in the timely identification of vestibular disorders. Methods A retrospective chart audit was undertaken in a multidisciplinary day hospital setting, where patients aged 75 years and older attend for assessments. Paper charts of patients discharged from the day hospital between January and March 2024 were reviewed. A Microsoft excel sheet was used to track data. Data on self-reported dizziness and falls as well as the location of dizziness occurring was gathered. Results A total of 103 patient charts were reviewed. Of those, 39 reported experiencing dizziness, with 90% of those patients also reporting a history of falls. 18 of these patients were subsequently diagnosed with vestibular disorders. 78% of patients diagnosed with BPPV reported experiencing dizziness getting out of bed or in their bedroom with 28% also reporting dizziness on getting up from a chair. However, 100% of patients with dizziness and falls without vestibular disorders reported dizziness on getting out of their bed. Conclusion People with all cause dizziness reported dizziness on getting out of bed. Based on the results of this audit, vestibular screening is not aided by questions surrounding location of dizziness occurring.