Development of a Perioperative Hip Fracture Protocol: Expediting Medical Optimization in a High-Risk Surgical Population.

Elderly patients presenting with hip fracture have a significantly increased risk of morbidity and mortality. This is due to the old age and high frequency of comorbidities present in this population as well as fracture related complications. Poorly controlled pain and perioperative delirium can be particularly challenging and linked to the time it takes to safely plan and surgically repair the fracture. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgery recommends surgical repair within 24-48 hours, with evidence showing increased mortality and morbidity with longer delays.