Integrated Technology Serves and Informs Clinical Practice: Pressure Ulcer Prevalence Surveys

Purpose:
This intervention provides real-time feedback to nursing units about NDNQI Pressure Ulcer (PU) prevalence survey findings by improving efficiency and accuracy of data collection during the quarterly evaluation to increase prevention utilization measures by integrating technology into the process.

Significance:
The Pressure Ulcer Prevention team assesses approximately 380 patients each PU survey day. Previously a paper audit tool was used to collect data. The process was cumbersome and delayed communication of important findings to nursing units. Data integrity and accuracy also suffered.

Strategy and Implementation:
Results of analysis from the paper audits revealed inconsistent, incomplete and/or unnecessary data collected on patients. Findings disseminated weeks after the survey proved to be untimely and unactionable. Plan, Do, Check, Act (PDCA) methodology was used to create an electronic data collection tool. This process decreased data entry errors and enabled survey findings to be instantly communicated to each nursing unit via an electronic report. Data collector training provided time to practice with the new tool prior to going live. Training emphasized the importance of sending the electronic report to the nurse manager and skin resource nurse immediately after completing each unit's survey. Electronic reports aimed to heighten awareness of patient needs and current nursing practice observed on each unit. Follow up evaluation was conducted on usefulness of the process and consumer satisfaction.

Evaluation:
The implementation of this intervention resulted in an 88% decrease in missing data, 80% decrease in inconsistent data and a 4 hour time savings due to our 83% decrease in collecting unnecessary data. Survey result communication time also decreased from 1-3 weeks to less than 10 minutes.

Implications for Practice:
Integrating technology and enhancing the process of conducting the NDNQI quarterly PU prevalence survey proved successful. Engaging nurses in real-time assessment of patients' needs results in immediate implementation of quality care.