“The pen is mightier than the sword” is an age-old adage that implies that the power of communication — in this case, written communication — is more powerful than a physical weapon. Do...
And the winners are …
By
Jacqueline Vance, RNC, CDONA/LTC
Oct 15, 2013
The Frontline Health Workers Coalition and Save the Children are launching the second annual REAL Awards, a very special awards program designed to develop respect and appreciation for health workers for...
Strategic goals: Now comes the hard part.
By
Martie Moore
Jul 09, 2018
In the first two articles of this series, the CMS Quality Strategy Goals were discussed. While those quality and strategic goals are audacious, the other half of the plan is the Mount Everest of Healthcare....
Can gloves do more harm than good?
By
Megan J. DiGiorgio MSN, RN, CIC, FAPIC
Sep 19, 2017
An observational study in a LTC facility examined the degree of inappropriate glove use among certified nursing assistants (CNA) when helping residents with bathing or toileting activities.
Use caution in antipsychotics reduction
By
G. Allen Power, M.D.
Sep 22, 2014
It is true that I began speaking out about the misuse of antipsychotics drugs long before they came to national attention. But as I applaud the efforts of our providers and regulators around this important...
Your residents might be safe, but what about your data?
By
John O'Connor
Mar 03, 2014
Long-term care providers go to great lengths to keep residents out of harm’s way. But it appears that the data many operators count on might be anything but safe.
Give unto others
By
Mary Gustafson
Aug 17, 2012
Looking for a cure for compassion fatigue? Try reminding your caregivers of the obvious — that their job is all about giving. Trust me, there is some science to this.
Donut hole dangers
By
Mary Gustafson
Jul 05, 2012
It’s well established that nursing home residents frequently struggle with conditions such as heart failure and depression. It’s also true that critics of nursing home care are quick to blame...
Flu season isn’t over: 7 tips to help prevent the spread
By
Megan J. DiGiorgio MSN, RN, CIC, FAPIC
Mar 27, 2017
If a resident in a long-term care facility is suspected to have the flu, it’s important to test, isolate and provide antiviral therapy.
Finding balance and lighting the way
By
Jean Wendland Porter
Dec 23, 2016
Most of our patients over 80 have vestibular deficits, and that’s why they fall.