Aiming for the stars? Reflections on staffing to acuity
By
Steven Littlehale
Jun 17, 2013
Experts have proposed standards for minimum and ideal facility staffing, and some states have adopted minimums as legal requirements. However, there is no industry-wide agreement on any of the three targets...
Strategies to succeed in a challenging environment
By
Bruce Van Horn
May 24, 2013
The industry can survive and thrive by transforming itself, by embracing wellness for employees and residents and by mounting an effective PR campaign to highlight the importance of long-term care industry....
Pressure ulcer prevention basics
By
James G. Spahn, M.D., FACS
May 13, 2013
What exactly is a pressure ulcer? It is mechanical stress—pressure, shear or friction—that causes ischemic necrosis of at-risk soft tissue. Pressure ulcers were once thought to happen only to those...
The importance of data accuracy
By
Steven Littlehale
Apr 10, 2013
Has a day gone by when you haven’t heard about a new healthcare reform requirement coming of age? This month skilled nursing facilities were supposed to have started having an operational compliance...
Dementia dining: A model
By
Pat Snyder
Apr 08, 2013
Individual needs are met, dignity and respect are honored, and topics are set to reflect a congenial atmosphere.
If I were to rob your community blind, you’ll never guess what I’d take
By
Kevin Williams
Mar 15, 2013
Offering multiple types of care, and other benefits are only the beginning of offerings that senior living owner/operators will offer their customer base in the future. Geriatric counseling and moving...
Sorting out the antipsychotic quality measures
By
Steven Littlehale
Mar 05, 2013
While antipsychotic measurements can vary, providers must carefully and thoroughly examine all antipsychotic medication use in their facility.
Taking steps to prevent Clostridium difficile infections
By
Irena Kenneley, Ph.D.
Feb 15, 2013
The numbers are in and they are grim. There are 165,000 cases, $1.3 billion in excess costs, and 9,000 deaths from Clostridium difficile infections that are healthcare-acquired in the United States annually.
How consistent CNA assignments will help residents
By
Steven Littlehale
Feb 07, 2013
Consistent assignments for CNAs are discussed and implemented more frequently than they used to be. For the most part, research studies speak to the positive attributes of this model of care. From improved...
Survey and certification: Level that playing field!
By
Steven Littlehale
Dec 11, 2012
As you engage in quality improvement efforts, put together data-driven marketing materials, complete a HUD refinance application, or talk with families and other community members take care to make sure...