Despite strong federal and regulatory support for mandatory vaccinations among healthcare workers — including nursing home employees — the U.S. adult vaccination rate is on the low side, according...
Disaster plans filled with holes, feds say
By
Mary Gustafson
Jun 05, 2012
While most U.S. nursing homes have adequate written plans for managing natural disasters, many have significant gaps in preparedness and response, a government report finds.
Study: Quality measures are needed for end-of-life care
By
Mary Gustafson
Jun 05, 2012
As the number of people who choose nursing homes for end-of-life care continues to rise, more quality measures are needed to help consumers judge performance, a new study recommends.
Uniform colors seen as way to discern wristbands’ intent
By
Mary Gustafson
May 01, 2012
Healthcare systems should adopt more uniform color-coding of patient wristbands or implement barcode systems to reduce potential for errors across inpatient settings, nursing experts say.
Study: More RN-LPN coordination needed
By
Mary Gustafson
May 01, 2012
Registered nurses and licensed practical nurses often have interchangeable responsibilities in nursing homes, which can lead to more medication errors, according to newly announced results of a study.
Study: Recession improved staff turnover
By
Mary Gustafson
Apr 02, 2012
Newly licensed registered nurses perceived fewer jobs available during the recession. They also reported greater loyalty to their employers, results of a new study reveal.
Leadership and technology vital in protecting the aged
By
Mary Gustafson
Nov 01, 2011
Robust leadership skills, enhanced safety practices and adoption of key technologies are required to meet the needs of individuals needing long-term care, according to new research.
Nurses key in opioid pain management
By
Mary Gustafson
Nov 01, 2011
Nurses are uniquely qualified to help control the pain of institutionalized patients undergoing pain management with opioid analgesics, according to new recommendations from a nursing panel.
Resident handling programs can minimize worker injuries
By
Mary Gustafson
Sep 01, 2011
The growing disparity between the average American’s weight and safe lifting requirements presents a challenge for long-term care workers who perform heavy lifting. As a result, facilities with safe...
New effort cuts catheter-related UTIs
By
Mary Gustafson
Aug 02, 2011
An interdisciplinary team of healthcare professionals at a Nebraska rehabilitation hospital succeeded in reducing catheter-associated urinary tract infections by 89% over 14 months, according to a new...