Title:
QUALITY IMPROVEMENT IN THE NURSING HOME

Author: Vyvyn Sun, MD

Abstract:
INTRODUCTION: Second and third year residents have required experiences in the skilled nursing facility. The goal of this project was to improve the educational experience during this rotation.

METHODS: Initially, problems areas were identified through informal questioning. Second and third year residents completed a questionnaire regarding their satisfaction with the nursing home and their geriatric experience. Multiple interventions were implemented in an effort to improve the rotation.

RESULTS: A log book for monitoring coumadin therapy was implemented. Residents worked with social workers to streamline the process of obtaining and implementing DNR status of the nursing home residents. Grounds rules were established to help minimize the frequency and number of phone calls for non-emergent issues. The process of seeing nursing home residents for continuity and acute visits were restructured.

CONCLUSION: Quality improvement in the nursing home is an on going process.