Researchers evaluated the effect of the Healthy Skin Project, a multidisciplinary initiative to reduce hospital-acquired pressure ulcers, in a surgical progressive care unit at Sharp Grossmont Hospital in San Diego.
The project included three components:
1. A unit-based wound liaison nurse. The nurse conducted bimonthly skin audits to monitor compliance with practice and documentation standards.
2. Staff education. Staff learned proper practice through a self-learning module, case presentations, one-one-one training and an algorithm tool that demonstrated step-by-step wound management and documentation.
3. Involvement of the nursing assistants.
Before implementation, from 2003 through 2006, the rate of hospital-acquired pressure ulcers ranged from 0 to 18.92 percent with an average of 4.85 percent. After implementation of the project, the rate dropped to 0 percent for 17 of 20 quarters through 2011.
More Articles on Pressure Ulcers:
20 Quality Measures Improving, Worsening at the Highest Rate
Patient Safety Tool: Hospital-Acquired Pressure Ulcer Prevention Guide
CMS Proposes Hospital-Acquired Condition Reduction Program Provisions
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.