Demonstrating Nurse-Sensitive Outcomes: Do Barrier Perceptions Differ By Role?

This study provides some of the first evidence to demonstrate the existence of barriers and differences in barrier perception related to role.https://digitalcommons.centracare.com/nursing_posters/1012/thumbnail.jp

Disinfection of Shared Mobile Phones Carried by Registered Nurses: A Comparison of Two Methods

This study determined the efficacy of cleaning products on mobile phones. Previous research has demonstrated the risk for bacterial cross contamination between healthcare workers\u27 hands, close contact equipment, and mobile communication devices. There is extensive literature on survival of organisms on inanimate objects. Mobile communication devices can act as a reservoir for bacteria associated with nosocomial infection. Additional studies show cross contamination between the healthcare workers hands, the mobile phones, and the patient.https://digitalcommons.centracare.com/nursing_posters/1025/thumbnail.jp

You Missed a Spot! Disinfecting Shared Mobile Phones

The use of portable mobile devices has facilitated timely communication among healthcare team members. It\u27s now a common practice for hospital-owned mobile phones to be shared among healthcare employees from shift to shift. Despite the benefit of increased, timely communication between caregivers, sharing mobile devices can lead to the spread of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). This article looks at the efficacy of two types of cleaning products on shared mobile phones carried by RNs at a 489-bed, Magnet-designated, Midwestern regional medical center. The cleaning methods evaluated were 70% isopropyl alcohol wipes and ethyl alcohol wipes

Bacteria on Shared Mobile Phones Can Lead to Infections

It\u27s now a common practice for hospital-owned mobile phones to be shared among healthcare employees from shift to shift. Despite the benefit of increased, timely communication between caregivers, sharing mobile devices can lead to the spread of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) if they aren\u27t properly disinfected. The Guidelines for Disinfection and Sterilization in Healthcare Facilities describe non-critical environmental surfaces as items that are frequently touched by the hand and may pose a risk of secondary infection transmission

Development and Implementation of a Pediatric Palliative Care Program

Palliative care, long-used in the adult setting, is new to the pediatric setting. Research indicates that palliative care reduces length of stay and use of aggressive end-of-life interventions, improves quality of life, and provides hope. It balances provision of coordinated care with building of family memories and preparation for the child\u27s death with celebration of the child\u27s life. We advocate implementation of pediatric palliative care in any hospital that cares for children. This article provides a model outlining critical steps and considerations for establishing a successful pediatric palliative care progra

Development of Professionalism and Performance Accountability for Sustained FIM Accuracy Improvement

Purpose Rehabilitation nurses have essential responsibility for detailed Functional Independence Measure (FIM) documentation and accurate scoring. The goal of this performance improvement project was to improve individual FIM accuracy and establish and maintain a FIM accuracy standard. Methods This performance improvement project was implemented in a 20-bed CARF-accredited Midwestern acute care hospital inpatient rehabilitation unit. Findings Improved individual and overall RN FIM scoring accuracy, with increased length of stay and case mix index. Conclusions Concurrent FIM scoring and documentation review holds staff accountable and allows for timely revisions following discrepancy identification. Leadership supports for concurrent FIM audits, utilization of available technology, transparent reporting of results, and individual accountability lead to sustained improvement in FIM scoring accuracy. Clinical Relevance Accurate FIM documentation and scoring drive appropriate length of stay and case mix group assignment. Assessment competence enhances nursing engagement, confidence, and process accountability

Identification of Potential Barriers to Nurse-Sensitive Outcome Demonstration

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to determine differences in chief nursing officer, Magnet(®) program director, nurse leader, and direct care RN perspectives of potential barriers to demonstration of nurse-sensitive outcomes. BACKGROUND: The Magnet Recognition Program(®) and other designations are focusing on patient outcomes. No evidence is available addressing barriers to demonstration of nursing outcomes at multiple levels of practice. METHODS: A Likert scale tool was developed and administered to 526 attendees at the 2012 national Magnet conference. Questions related to available resources, benchmarks, outcome demonstration process understanding, perception of value, and competing priorities. RESULTS: Significant perception differences by role were demonstrated related to available resources, competing priorities, and process understanding supporting demonstration of nurse-sensitive outcomes. No significant differences were identified related to benchmarks or perception of process value to the organization. CONCLUSION: This study provides new information demonstrating potential barriers to demonstration of nurse-sensitive outcomes differing by role. Opportunity exists to develop systems and processes to reduce perceived barriers among the nursing workforce