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Decreasing pressure ulcer risk during hospital procedures: a rapid process improvement workshop
Vicki Haugen1, Judy Pechacek, Travis Maher
1Fairview Southdale Hospital, Edina, Minnesota 55435, USA. vhaugen1@fairview.org
Summary
A hospital workshop identified prolonged immobility during patient transport and procedures as a key factor for facility-acquired pressure ulcers (PU). Interventions included improved communication, shorter procedure times, and enhanced prevention techniques to reduce PU incidence.
Area of Science:
- Healthcare Management
- Patient Safety
- Quality Improvement
Background:
- Facility-acquired pressure ulcers (PU) represent a significant patient safety concern and a marker of care quality.
- Identifying and mitigating risk factors for PU is crucial in acute care settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify factors contributing to facility-acquired pressure ulcers (PU) within a community hospital.
- To develop actionable strategies for PU prevention through a rapid process improvement approach.
Main Methods:
- A 2-day "Rapid Process Improvement Workshop" involving key stakeholders was conducted.
- Methods included data analysis, process flow charting, factor identification, and action plan development.
- Interventions focused on communication, procedural modifications, prevention techniques, and patient risk identification.
Main Results:
- Prolonged immobility during patient transport, imaging, and perioperative periods was identified as a major PU risk factor.
- Action plans included enhanced communication of PU risk, optimized procedure times, and implementation of prevention strategies.
- Educational programs and an updated hospital-wide handoff tool incorporating skin status were developed.
Conclusions:
- A collaborative, rapid improvement workshop effectively identified PU risk factors in an acute care setting.
- Multifaceted interventions, including improved communication and procedural adjustments, are essential for effective PU prevention.
- Standardized tools and education enhance interdepartmental awareness and patient safety regarding pressure ulcer risk.
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