Discussion Board Describe a clinical situation where you were concerned (e.g., a higher incidence of falls, infections, errors, etc.) and where decisions were made to improve the situation. What sources of evidence were utilized to make the decision (e.g., personal experience, expert advice, etc.)? 1 page excluding cover and reference pages. Use APA style Houser, J. (2018). (4th ed.). Burlington, MA: Jones & Bartlett Learning Purchase the answer to view it
Title: Improving Clinical Decision-Making: A Case Study on Reducing the Incidence of Falls
Introduction:
Clinical decision-making is a critical aspect of healthcare practice that involves evaluating different options and choosing the most appropriate course of action to improve patient outcomes. In this discussion, I will describe a clinical situation where I was concerned about the higher incidence of falls among elderly patients in a hospital setting. I will highlight the decisions that were made to address this concern and the sources of evidence that were utilized in the decision-making process.
Clinical Situation:
During a clinical rotation in the geriatric unit of a hospital, I observed a concerning trend of higher incidence of falls among elderly patients. Falls among older adults are a significant health concern as they can lead to serious injuries such as fractures, head trauma, and reduced quality of life. The increase in falls not only had negative consequences for the affected patients but also placed a burden on healthcare resources. Recognizing the urgency and the potential impact of fall prevention measures, the healthcare team initiated a series of decisions to improve the situation.
Decisions Made:
To address the high incidence of falls, a multidisciplinary team consisting of nurses, physicians, physical therapists, and occupational therapists was formed. The team collaborated to develop a comprehensive fall prevention program that aimed to identify and address the risk factors contributing to falls. The key decisions made during this process included:
1. Conducting Comprehensive Fall Risk Assessments:
The team recognized the importance of accurately identifying patients at risk of falls. Various fall risk assessment tools, such as the Morse Fall Scale and Hendrich II Fall Risk Model, were evaluated, and the Hendrich II Fall Risk Model was adopted due to its higher sensitivity and specificity. Nurses were trained to perform the assessments on all admitted patients and to document the results in the electronic medical record.
2. Implementing Multifaceted Interventions:
Based on the risk assessment results, tailored interventions were implemented to address identified risk factors. These interventions included increased patient surveillance, improved lighting, non-slip flooring, and the installation of handrails in critical areas. In addition, the physical and occupational therapists provided exercises and mobility aids to improve patients’ strength, balance, and coordination.
3. Educating Patients, Families, and Staff:
Recognizing the importance of patient and family involvement in fall prevention, a comprehensive educational program was developed. Patients and families were provided with information on fall risks, strategies for preventing falls, and the importance of reporting any changes in patients’ health or mobility. Furthermore, staff members received regular education and training on recognizing fall risk factors, implementing preventive measures, and using appropriate assistive devices.
Sources of Evidence:
In the decision-making process, the healthcare team relied on a combination of sources of evidence to support their interventions and strategies. These sources included:
1. Research Literature:
Scientific literature on fall prevention was extensively reviewed to identify evidence-based practices. Research studies, systematic reviews, and clinical guidelines helped inform the team’s decisions, ensuring that interventions were supported by the best available evidence.
2. Expert Advice:
The team sought guidance from experts in the field of geriatrics and fall prevention. These experts provided valuable insights and recommendations based on their extensive experience and knowledge.
3. Institutional Data and Quality Improvement Initiatives:
The team analyzed institutional data regarding falls, including incidence rates, demographics of patients, and circumstances surrounding the falls. This data helped identify trends, patterns, and potential modifiable factors. Additionally, quality improvement initiatives within the hospital provided valuable feedback on the effectiveness of implemented interventions.
Conclusion:
In this clinical situation, the concern over the higher incidence of falls among elderly patients prompted the healthcare team to make decisions aimed at improving patient safety and outcomes. The decisions made were informed by a variety of sources of evidence, including research literature, expert advice, and institutional data. By adopting evidence-based practices, the team successfully implemented a comprehensive fall prevention program that addressed risk factors and ultimately reduced the incidence of falls. This case study highlights the importance of evidence-based practice in clinical decision-making and demonstrates its potential to positively impact patient care and outcomes.