What is the most effective way to reduce anxiety for a stable older patient being transported to the hospital?

Transporting the patient to a hospital that they are familiar with can significantly reduce anxiety for a stable older patient. Familiar environments often evoke a sense of comfort and security, which can help alleviate fears associated with the unknown experience of being in an ambulance and going to a new hospital. Familiarity with the hospital may include previous experiences with staff, the layout of the facility, or a history of positive outcomes, all of which can contribute to a more relaxed state of mind during transport.

Choosing to allow family members to accompany the patient, while also supportive, may not have the same level of impact as the comfort of a familiar setting. Additionally, avoiding a long backboard in the case of suspected trauma is primarily a safety and medical consideration rather than an emotional one, and performing frequent assessments, although valuable in building trust, may not directly address the emotional distress caused by the situation. Therefore, transporting the patient to a familiar hospital stands out as the most effective method for reducing anxiety in this scenario.