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Melanie Cariker, DNP, RN, CPHQ
DNP: Southern California CSU DNP Consortium, Los Angeles
Master of Science, Nursing: Western Governors University
Bachelor of Science, Nursing: Western Governors University
 
Development of an Algorithm to Prevent Hospital-Acquired Pressure Injuries
Project  
Abstract:
Hospital-acquired pressure injuries (HAPIs) affect millions of patients yearly and have a tremendous impact on patients’ quality of life and healthcare costs. The evidence suggests that HAPIs increase patients’ pain, infection risk, morbidity, and mortality. Critically ill patients are at greater risk for developing HAPIs due to hemodynamic instability and vasoactive drug use. Prevention of HAPIs has been one of the biggest challenges in the healthcare industry due to the increased healthcare costs and its impact on patients’ quality of life. Limited knowledge of nurses about current evidence-based practices to prevent HAPIs is a common problem in clinical settings. Aim: 1) To evaluate nurses’ views of HAPI prevention practices, 2) To decrease the incidence of HAPIs for critically ill adults in an 8-bed ICU by 10% over one month by developing an algorithm for HAPI prevention and providing education to the nurses. Method: Using the PARIHS framework, this doctoral project examines the effects of a HAPI prevention algorithm tool on nursing views on pressure injury prevention. The project was piloted in an 8-bed intensive care unit of a 401-bed acute care hospital in Los Angeles, California. Participants were educated with the HAPI prevention algorithm. Anonymous pre-and post-intervention Likert scale surveys were provided to participants via Qualtrics. Results: Participants’ overall responses resulted in an improved understanding of HAPI prevention and interventions. Several survey results demonstrated statistical significance. All responses showed clinical significance in HAPI prevention. Utilizing the evidence-based HAPI prevention algorithm tool revealed improved knowledge in preventing HAPIs, as evidenced by the decreased number of HAPIs in the pilot unit post-intervention.
Team Leader: Elizabeth J. Winokur, PhD, RN, CEN
Team Member: Taqialdeen Zamil, DNP, RN, PMHNP-BC

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