Power of Good Data

Never underestimate the power of data. Hannibal (Mo.) Regional Hospital focused on collecting and analyzing data to prevent pressure ulcers. The 91-bed hospital serves 18,000 town residents but about 90,000 in its entire service area. The hospital created a multidisciplinary pressure ulcer prevention team that includes dieticians, nurses, patient care techs, respiratory therapists and physical therapists. Lynn Olson, president and CEO, says the AHA/HRET Hospital Engagement Network provided guidance and best practices to staff attending off-site seminars as well as on-site consultation. To improve patient care, staff use soft nasal cannula tubing, waffle cushions, wedges (when turning patients) and heel elevation boots. During hourly rounding, staff encourage patients to hydrate and keep moving. One key to success was involving front-line staff in making changes. Hannibal Regional Hospital has reduced patient harm by more than 40% since January 2013.

For more information, contact Sarah Bradshaw, vice president, nursing, or Keith Griffeth, vice president, quality management. Videos highlighting HEN initiatives, including “Preventing Pressure Ulcers: The Power of Good Data” about Hannibal Regional Hospital's work, are also available.

HPOE.org features guides, webinars and case studies from AHA resources and other groups. View the preventing pressure ulcers section of this resource library.