Parkinson’s disease, deterioration during hospitalization

Patients with Parkinson's disease are at an increased risk of hospitalisation. They are often admitted for longer and are more likely to experience complications. A significant percentage of these vulnerable patients also experience worsening Parkinson's symptoms during their hospital stay. Roughly one-quarter have more motor skill problems upon discharge than on admission. Cognitive deterioration is also present in some of these patients. Infections and medical errors during the admission process are the key reasons for this increase.

This deterioration can be largely prevented by improving healthcare for Parkinson's patients.