The UMB Digital Archive is getting an upgrade! The upgrade requires a content freeze starting 1/27/25 and is expected to last two weeks. Any new user accounts or submissions made to the Archive during this time will not be transferred to the upgraded site. Contact ArchiveHelp@hshsl.umaryland.edu for questions.
Implementation of an Algorithm to Prevent Pressure Injuries Among Immobile Residents
Other Titles
Implementation of an AlgorithmAbstract
Problem: Pressure injuries (PI) stages II, III, and IV became a serious health problem at a long-term care (LTC) facility in Maryland during the unprecedented times of the Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The executive director reported that several immobile residents in each of the facility’s (n=12) three units developed PIs: seven sacral ulcers, stages II, III, and IV; five heels, consisting of two right outers; and three left outers, stages II and III. In addition, (n=2) PIs stage III became infected. Purpose: The purpose of this quality improvement (QI) project was to implement a PI algorithm for prevention and expeditious intervention for PIs. Methods: The QI project was implemented August-December 2021. Pre-implementation, in person, the DNP student educated change champions, registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), and certified nursing assistants (CNAs)/geriatric nursing assistants (GNAs), on the algorithm. After the education session, a copy of the algorithm was laminated and posted at each nursing station in the three units. Additional strategies included training CNAs/GNAs on adhering to the turning schedule and filling out the log posted in each resident's room. In addition, each nursing staff member completed a pretest, then viewed an educational PowerPoint, and completed a post-test to evaluate knowledge of PIs. During implementation, the DNP student tracked structure, process, and outcome measures weekly through chart audits and PI prevention rounding audit tool. Results: A pie chart displayed structure measures; 80% (n=20) of nursing staff were trained on the algorithm. Zero new PIs stages II, III, and IV were reported during implementation of the algorithm. Sacral PIs stages II (n=7) improved. At week ten, 100% algorithm compliance was achieved; additionally, 90% was achieved at weeks twelve and thirteen. Conclusion: Implementation of the PI algorithm at the LTC facility during COVID-19 effectively improved residents' quality of life, prevented PIs, and decreased morbidity and mortality. Continuing education and training will be needed to maintain sustainability.Identifier to cite or link to this item
http://hdl.handle.net/10713/18902Collections
The following license files are associated with this item: