Reliably Protecting Patients from Pressure Ulcers

Despite known best practices to prevent them, pressure ulcers continue to be a source of needless harm for patients all over the world. A single pressure ulcer extends a hospital stay by as much as 20 days and can cost a US hospital upwards of $40,000. IHI faculty member Kathy Duncan, RN, is director of IHI’s upcoming Preventing Pressure Ulcers Expedition – a web-based training starting April 22. And in a new interview posted to IHI’s Safety First Blog, Duncan talks about the importance of reliability in overcoming the challenge of pressure ulcers. She also explores why education isn’t enough (in the absence of reliable processes), how certain exemplar organizations have been successful in their prevention efforts, and what the keys are to preventing pressure ulcers across the entire continuum of care.

“It’s Always Too Soon Until It’s Too Late”

Health Affairs dedicates its April 2014 issue to “The Long Reach of Alzheimer’s Disease.” The articles cover all aspects of Alzheimer’s, from research challenges, to legislative agendas, to end-of-life care and advance directives. Supporting this special issue is an extraordinary post to the Health Affairs Blog by Ellen Goodman, Pulitzer Prize-winning author and co-founder of The Conversation Project, whose goal is to ensure that people’s wishes for end-of-life care are expressed and respected. Goodman tells the personal, moving story of her sister’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis – arguing passionately about the importance of having these crucial conversations while they’re still possible. She echoes one of The Conversation Project’s core mottos: “It’s always too soon until it’s too late.” Also be sure to tune into this week’s free webinar with Ellen Goodman (Wednesday, April 16, 3-4pm ET) to celebrate National Healthcare Decisions Day and hear a discussion about “What’s holding you back?” from talking about your preferences regarding end-of-life care.

 
IHI Focus Area Spotlight

Improvement Capability: Building the Bridge Between QI and Environmental Sustainability

Person- and Family-Centered Care: When "Why Are You Here Today?" Is the Most Important Thing You Can Be Asked

Patient Safety: Preventing Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections

Quality, Cost, and Value: Mobile Health Clinics Improve Care, Reduce Costs

Triple Aim for Populations: One Hospital’s Strategy for Improving Population Health