AKH Inc. Advancing Knowledge in Healthcare

Fox Learning Systems: The Aging Process

noemail@akhealthcare.com — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 12:00:00 GMT

Objectives:

Needs Statement: Long term care staffs provide care for geriatric patients at various stages within the aging process. Knowledge of the common stages of the normal aging process help staff recognize abnormal changes that could indicate advancing disease or changes outside this progression. Early recognition and reporting could improve outcomes and assist in the planning of care.

Goal: To provide the information needed for nursing personnel to recognize the normal processes of aging.

Learning Objectives:
At the completion of this activity, participants should be able to:
1. Describe the physical changes that occur in the human body due to aging
2. Identify changes related to memory as we age
3. Discuss how the aging process affects personality and the losses the elderly experience
4. Verbalize the potential problems related to caring for the elderly and nursing interventions

Instructor: Jules Rosen, M.D. & Marcia L. Kollar, RN

Release Date: 1-Aug-07 8:00 AM
Expiration Date: 31-Aug-09 8:00 AM

Method of Participation:
The participant should, in order, read the objectives, view each video chapter of the interactive multimedia material and answer the multiple-choice post-test. To view the multimedia material you must enter the post test link and enter your credit card information. After you have done this you must click on the link in the first question to view content. A score of at least 70% is required to successfully complete this program. The corrected answer sheet will be provided for comparison with course information. Please submit the post-test only once for this activity to receive a statement of participation. Multiple statements will not be issued. Please complete an evaluation after you have finished the test.

Estimated Time of Completion:
This activity should take approximately 60 minutes to complete.

Conflict of Interest Statement:
It is the policy of AKH Inc. to ensure independence, balance, objectivity, scientific rigor, and integrity in all of its continuing education activities. The faculty must disclose to the participants any significant relationships with commercial interests whose products or devices may be mentioned in the activity or with the commercial supporter of this continuing education activity. Identified conflict of interest is resolved by AKH Inc. prior to certification of the activity.

Faculty:
Jules Rosen, M.D. is a Professor of Psychiatry at the Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic of the University of Pittsburgh. He is Chief of Consultation-Liaison and Nursing Home Services and the Director of the Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship Training Program. He was the Principal Investigator for Phases I and II grants funded by the National Institute on Aging to develop and assess the core curriculum of computer-based training for nursing homes personnel called “Solutions for Long-term Care”.

Marcia L. Kollar, RN, Clinical Specialist Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing, is a clinical administrator, Nursing Homes/Consultation and Liaison Service/Geriatric Acute-Care Partial Program at the Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic for the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Health System. Ms. Kollar served as consultant for the development and assessment of the core curriculum of computer-based training for nursing homes personnel called “Solutions for Long-term Care”.

Test Writer:
Virginia McCarty, RN, CIC, LHRM is employed by AKH Inc. as CE Coordinator and is a diploma graduate nurse with certification in infection control and healthcare risk management. She is a member of the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) and Florida Risk Managers Association. Ms. McCarty has extensive background in teaching healthcare professionals the principles of infection control, OSHA bloodborne pathogens, hazardous waste management, risk management and documentation.

Disclosures:

Mr. Rosen discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Ms. Kollar discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Ms. McCarty discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Disclaimer:
This course is designed solely to provide the healthcare professional with information to assist in his/her practice and professional development and is not to be considered a diagnostic tool to replace professional advice or treatment. The course serves as a general guide to the healthcare professional, and therefore, cannot be considered as giving legal, nursing, medical, or other professional advice in specific cases. AKH Inc., Fox Learning Systems, the author(s), and the publisher specifically disclaim responsibility for any adverse consequences resulting directly or indirectly from information in the course, undetected error, or reader's misunderstanding of the content.

Joint Sponsorship Statement:
Jointly sponsored by AKH Inc. and Fox Learning Systems.

To view the evaluation for this course please click here.

Fox Learning Systems: Understanding Depression

noemail@akhealthcare.com — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 12:00:00 GMT

Objectives:

Needs Statement: Our population is living longer and more elderly persons are becoming residents of long term care facilities. These populations have complex emotional issues that need to be identified and properly addressed by the healthcare professionals who provide care for them.

Goal: To increase awareness of the prevalence, symptoms, and causes of depression in the elderly especially those in long term care facilities.

Learning Objectives:
At the completion of this activity, participants should be able to:
1. Identify symptoms of depression in the elderly
2. Discuss the prevalence and causes of depression in the elderly

Instructor: Jules Rosen, M.D. & Marcia L. Kollar, RN

Release Date: 1-Aug-07 8:00 AM
Expiration Date: 31-Aug-09 8:00 AM

Faculty:
Jules Rosen, M.D. is a Professor of Psychiatry at the Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic of the University of Pittsburgh. He is Chief of Consultation-Liaison and Nursing Home Services and the Director of the Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship Training Program. He was the Principal Investigator for Phases I and II grants funded by the National Institute on Aging to develop and assess the core curriculum of computer-based training for nursing homes personnel called “Solutions for Long-term Care”.

Marcia L. Kollar, RN, Clinical Specialist Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing, is a clinical administrator, Nursing Homes/Consultation and Liaison Service/Geriatric Acute-Care Partial Program at the Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic for the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Health System. Ms. Kollar served as consultant for the development and assessment of the core curriculum of computer-based training for nursing homes personnel called “Solutions for Long-term Care”.

Disclosures:

Mr. Rosen discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Ms. Kollar discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Ms. McCarty discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Joint Sponsorship Statement:
Jointly sponsored by AKH Inc. and Fox Learning Systems.

To view the evaluation for this course please click here.

Fox Learning Systems: Transitional Return to Work

noemail@akhealthcare.com — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 12:00:00 GMT

Objectives:

Needs Statement: Healthcare workers need to be informed as to the management and proper processes to be followed when returning to work after injury.

Goal: To provide information to healthcare workers in long term care facilities related to return to work after injury.

Learning Objectives:
At the completion of this activity, participants should be able to:
1. Compare the salary differences between a transitional program and workmen's comprehensive coverage.
2. Describe the process involved in transitioning back to work after an injury including evaluation and communication.
3. Discuss the implications of work related injuries and guidelines for returning to work.

Instructor: Susan L. Terragna, RN, BSN & Shep Tapasak, J.D., CPCU

Release Date: 1-Aug-07 8:00 AM
Expiration Date: 31-Aug-09 8:00 AM

Estimated Time of Completion:
This activity should take approximately 60 minutes to complete.

Susan L. Terragna, RN, BSN has over 27 years of experience working in diverse clinical settings, risk management, medical case management, underwriting, risk control, claims and business development. Ms. Terragna’s concentration has been on professional and general liability and workers’ compensation in the long term care industry.

Shep Tapasak, J.D., CPCU is employed by American International Group as a regional manger and Assistant VP with over 21 years in the healthcare liability and risk management insurance industry.

Test Writer:
Virginia McCarty, RN, CIC, LHRM is employed by AKH Inc. as CE Coordinator and is a diploma graduate nurse with certification in infection control and healthcare risk management. She is a member of the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) and Florida Risk Managers Association. Ms. McCarty has extensive background in teaching healthcare professionals the principles of infection control, OSHA bloodborne pathogens, hazardous waste management, risk management and documentation.

Disclosures:

Ms. Terragna discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Mr. Tapasak discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Ms. McCarty discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Joint Sponsorship Statement:
Jointly sponsored by AKH Inc. and Fox Learning Systems.

To view the evaluation for this course please click here.

Fox Learning Systems: Safely Caring for Aggressive Residents

noemail@akhealthcare.com — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 12:00:00 GMT

Objectives:

Needs Statement: Healthcare workers need to be informed as to the causes of aggressive behavior; appropriate response to aggression by residents and techniques to prevent injury when caring for aggressive residents.

Goal: To provide long term care healthcare workers with information on injury prevention measures that can be used when caring for residents with aggressive behavior.

Learning Objectives:
At the completion of this activity, participants should be able to:
1. Identify causes of aggressive behavior
2. Explain proper methods and decision making when approaching the individual exhibiting aggressive behavior
3. Discuss inappropriate responses to aggressive behavior
4. List methods to use in providing care

Instructor: Susan L. Terragna, RN, BSN & Shep Tapasak, J.D., CPCU

Release Date: 1-Aug-07 8:00 AM
Expiration Date: 31-Aug-09 8:00 AM

Estimated Time of Completion:
This activity should take approximately 60 minutes to complete.

Faculty:

Shep Tapasak, J.D., CPCU is employed by American International Group as a regional manger and Assistant VP with over 21 years in the healthcare liability and risk management insurance industry.

Disclosures:

Ms. Terragna discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Mr. Tapasak discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Ms. McCarty discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Joint Sponsorship Statement:
Jointly sponsored by AKH Inc. and Fox Learning Systems.

To view the evaluation for this course please click here.

Fox Learning Systems: Preventing Slips. Trips, and Falls

noemail@akhealthcare.com — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 12:00:00 GMT

Objectives:

Needs Statement: According to the Occupational Safety Health Administration (OSHA), slips, trips and falls are the second most common cause of injury in long term care facilities. Healthcare workers need training to establish safe working environments and prevent accidents.

Goal: To provide healthcare workers with information necessary to recognize an unsafe environment and to properly assess and correct the hazard and prevent accidents.

Learning Objectives:
At the completion of this activity, participants should be able to:
1. Identify slip, trip, and fall hazards
2. Discuss how to eliminate fall hazards
3. Verbalize the way a zero accident culture is established

Instructor: Susan L. Terragna, RN, BSN & Shep Tapasak, J.D., CPCU

Release Date: 1-Aug-07 8:00 AM
Expiration Date: 31-Aug-09 8:00 AM

Estimated Time of Completion:
This activity should take approximately 60 minutes to complete.

Faculty:

Shep Tapasak, J.D., CPCU is employed by American International Group as a regional manger and Assistant VP with over 21 years in the healthcare liability and risk management insurance industry.

Disclosures:

Ms. Terragna discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Mr. Tapasak discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Ms. McCarty discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Joint Sponsorship Statement:
Jointly sponsored by AKH Inc. and Fox Learning Systems.

To view the evaluation for this course please click here.

Fox Learning Systems: Mechanical Resident Transfers

noemail@akhealthcare.com — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 12:00:00 GMT

Objectives:

Needs Statement: Back injuries occur among healthcare workers as a result of improper transfer techniques and improper transfer device use, poor body mechanics, lack of assessment of the resident, and falls.

Goal: To provide the information needed for nursing personnel to change their behavior and use proper techniques to prevent back injuries when lifting and moving residents.

Learning Objectives:
At the completion of this activity, participants should be able to:
1. Verbalize the types of mechanical transfers
2. List the steps necessary to use any mechanical transfer safely
3. Describe the transfer process using a mechanical transfers

Instructor: Susan L. Terragna, RN, BSN & Shep Tapasak, J.D., CPCU

Release Date: 1-Aug-07 8:00 AM
Expiration Date: 31-Aug-09 8:00 AM

Estimated Time of Completion:
This activity should take approximately 60 minutes to complete.

Faculty:

Shep Tapasak, J.D., CPCU is employed by American International Group as a regional manger and Assistant VP with over 21 years in the healthcare liability and risk management insurance industry.

Disclosures:

Ms. Terragna discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Mr. Tapasak discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Ms. McCarty discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Joint Sponsorship Statement:
Jointly sponsored by AKH Inc. and Fox Learning Systems.

To view the evaluation for this course please click here.

Fox Learning Systems: Manual Resident Transfers

noemail@akhealthcare.com — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 12:00:00 GMT

Objectives:

Needs Statement: Long Term Care staffs assist in moving and transferring residents numerous times in the course of providing care. Back injuries occur as a result of improper transfer techniques, improper device use, poor body mechanics, lack of resident assessment, and falls.

Goal: To provide the information needed for nursing personnel to change their behavior and use proper techniques to prevent injuries when lifting and moving residents.

Learning Objectives:
At the completion of this activity, participants should be able to:
1. Discuss the role of individual's physical condition and proper body mechanics related to back injuries.
2. State the steps necessary in preparation of transferring a resident.

3. Describe the B.A.C.K. method and proper transfer techniques.
4. Describe the proper use of a gait belt including the contraindications to its use.
5. Discuss appropriate handling of a resident's fall during transfer

Instructor: Susan L. Terragna, RN, BSN & Shep Tapasak, J.D., CPCU

Release Date: 1-Aug-07 8:00 AM
Expiration Date: 31-Aug-09 8:00 AM

Estimated Time of Completion:
This activity should take approximately 60 minutes to complete.

Faculty:

Shep Tapasak, J.D., CPCU is employed by American International Group as a regional manger and Assistant VP with over 21 years in the healthcare liability and risk management insurance industry.

Disclosures:

Ms. Terragna discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Mr. Tapasak discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Ms. McCarty discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Joint Sponsorship Statement:
Jointly sponsored by AKH Inc. and Fox Learning Systems.

To view the evaluation for this course please click here.

Fox Learning Systems: Ergonomics & Body Mechanics

noemail@akhealthcare.com — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 12:00:00 GMT

Objectives:

Goal: To provide the information needed for nursing personnel to change their behavior and use proper techniques to prevent injuries.

Learning Objectives:
At the completion of this activity, participants should be able to:
1. Review the anatomy of the spine
2. Identify types of back injuries
3. Discuss the common causes of back injuries in healthcare settings
4. Describe the techniques involved in proper body mechanics

Instructor: Susan L. Terragna, RN, BSN & Shep Tapasak, J.D., CPCU

Release Date: 1-Aug-07 8:00 AM
Expiration Date: 31-Aug-09 8:00 AM

Method of Participation:
The participant should, in order, read the objectives, view each video chapter of the interactive multimedia material, read the supplemental information below, and answer the multiple-choice post-test. To view the multimedia material you must enter the post test link and enter your credit card information. After you have done this you must click on the link in the first question to view content. A score of at least 70% is required to successfully complete this program. The corrected answer sheet will be provided for comparison with course information. Please submit the post-test only once for this activity to receive a statement of participation. Multiple statements will not be issued. Please complete an evaluation after you have finished the test.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION ON Module 15
ERGONOMICS AND BODY MECHANICS

The following information is required supplemental reading accompanying the video material for Solutions for Long Term Care Module 15.

INTRODUCTION

Ergonomics and body mechanics are interrelated as they both involve the use of scientific principles during movement. Just as proper body mechanics prevents injury, so does a work area that is ergonomically designed. Although Ergonomics is a broad subject involving physical, cognitive, and organizational domains, ergonomics for purposes of this educational offering is used only in the physical sense. In other words, if the tasks that you perform during the course of doing your job can be performed without causing unnecessary stress and strain on your body, your work environment is ergonomically sound.1

Statistics from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics show that the number one type of work related injury is back injury as “more than one million workers suffer back injuries each year.”4 Back injuries among healthcare workers occur at a very high rate-about 5% higher than any other type of worker. Furthermore, “according to national statistics, six of the top ten professions at greatest risk for back injury are nurses’ aides, licensed practical nurses, registered nurses, health aides, radiology technicians, and physical therapists.”2,3 Nursing personnel in nursing homes were at a 5% higher risk than the nurses in hospitals. From these statistics, you are in the highest risk category for back injuries among nursing personnel.3

All nurses must practice proper body mechanics since the tasks that are performed are mainly accomplished through the use of their own bodies. Thus, body mechanics are the basis for an ergonomically sound work environment. If machines are used to assist in transferring or moving residents, know how to use them properly prior to use.

BODY MECHANICS

Body mechanics refers to the proper use of our body whether at rest or in motion. The proper use of body mechanics is termed “good body mechanics” and prevents injuries to our body especially to the back. Machines work effectively when all the moving parts function as they are supposed to. Maintaining good posture is the key to good body mechanics. If we keep our spine in correct alignment and we use our larger, stronger muscles to lift and move objects, we will prevent injury that results from poor body mechanics.3

The reason your back is at high risk of injury is that most of us will bend at the waist to pick something up. When we do this, our body works the same as a lever and puts strain on our backs. A lever has three parts—the fulcrum or balancing point (as in a seesaw) between the force that is trying to move the object and the resistance which is the object itself. When you bend over to lift an object, your back acts as a lever by providing the force necessary to move the object and your body’s center of gravity becomes the fulcrum. Although the task of lifting can be accomplished, unnecessary strain is placed on the back.3

The majority of back injuries are not related to a single event. Over time, the work of the back causes stress that can weaken or strain the structures of the back. Such injuries are treated with medications, ice and heat, and often back exercises to strengthen the back. Injuries that occur to the spine involve the discs and nerves and require various treatments including possibly surgery. Spinal injuries can also be acute. Either type of injury can become chronic or continue over a long period of time. Without the support of the spine, the body can not perform routine functions such as sitting, standing or walking. Back injuries can change your lifestyle including your occupation.3

The nursing activities that place you most at risk of having a back injury are moving, transferring, or lifting patients and changing bed linens. There are techniques based on the principles of body mechanics that should be followed to prevent injury. To prevent back injury, always place the height of the bed at the position you need to maintain your center of support or your body’s center of gravity. Lower the head of the bed rather than having to work harder to move the patient. Move your feet apart to widen your base of support. Take a good look at the task you face and decide if you need help due to the patient’s weight, size or their inability to help themselves. If your facility has devices to lift residents, learn how to use them properly.3

Remember, always push, pull, or roll an object rather than try to lift it. Pull instead of pushing whenever possible. Patients are no exception. When making a bed with the patient in it, pull the patient towards you to the edge of the bed and remove the sheet on the unoccupied side of the bed. After placing the sheet on the empty side of the mattress, roll the patient onto the new sheet and finish putting the sheet on the mattress. Use your leg and arm muscles when assisting the patient out of bed or onto the bedside commode. Remember not to perform the actions that place your back at risk like twisting, overreaching, getting into an awkward position, and lifting.3

OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) issued Ergonomic Guidelines for Nursing Homes in March of 2003.4 The guidelines are not mandatory and do not carry any fines if a facility does not institute them. To prevent back injuries for those working in nursing homes, OSHA recommends that manual lifting of residents be minimized and eliminated if possible. To have an effective ergonomics program, it must be supported by both the administration and management group of the facility. Additionally, employees must be involved and the following components must be present: 4

Identification of the problem
Implementation of solutions
Addressing reports of injuries
Providing training
Evaluation of ergonomics efforts

An effective ergonomics program has been shown to not only provide a safer and more comfortable work environment but also to benefit the facilities themselves. These benefits include: 4

Reduced staff turnover

Reduction in cost of hiring and training new employees

Reduced absenteeism

Increased productivity

Improved employee morale

Increased resident comfort

To analyze the needs of the residents related to procedures and equipment necessary to move or lift them, several protocols are available.4 The Resident Assessment Instrument is published by the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS) and can be accessed at: www.cms.hhs.gov/medicaid/mds20/
Another publication is Patient Care Ergonomics Resource Guide: Safe Patient Handling and Movement from the Patient Safety Center of Inquiry, Veterans Health Administration, and the Department of Defense. This information can be accessed at:
http://www.visn8.med.va.gov/patientsafetycenter/

Remember to always use good body mechanics not just at work but wherever you are and whatever you are doing—the back you save may be your own!

REFERENCES

1. National Safety Council. NSC-by-Topic-Ergonomics. Available at: http://www.nsc.org/issues/ergo/define.htm Accessed 07/26/2007.
2. Centers for Disease Prevention and Control. NIOSH Publication No. 97-141: Musculoskeletal disorders and workplace factors. Available at: http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/97-141/ergotxt1.html Accessed 07/17/2007.
3. McCarty V. Body Mechanics: Preventing Self Injury with Proper Use of Your Body. AKH, Inc. 2007.
4. U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety & Health Administration. Ergonomics: guidelines for nursing homes. Available at: http://www.osha.gov/ergonomics/guidelines/nursinghome/final_nh_guidelines.html Accessed 07/17/2007.

Estimated Time of Completion:
This activity should take approximately 60 minutes to complete.

Faculty:

Shep Tapasak, J.D., CPCU is employed by American International Group as a regional manger and Assistant VP with over 21 years in the healthcare liability and risk management insurance industry.

Disclosures:

Ms. Terragna discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Mr. Tapasak discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Ms. McCarty discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Joint Sponsorship Statement:
Jointly sponsored by AKH Inc. and Fox Learning Systems.

To view the evaluation for this course please click here.

Fox Learning Systems: Pain Management

noemail@akhealthcare.com — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 12:00:00 GMT

Objectives:

Needs Statement: Residents in long term care facilities have special needs related to pain management including recognition, assessment and treatment.

Goal: To provide information necessary to recognize, assess, intervene and evaluate pain in the residents of long term care.

Learning Objectives:
At the completion of this activity, participants should be able to:
1. To describe characteristics of pain.
2. To discuss the recognition of pain in elderly including the barriers to recognition.
3. To state the methods of intervention to relieve pain and the importance of reevaluation of the resident.
4. To identify factors the side effects related to different medications.

Instructor: Jules Rosen, M.D. & Marcia L. Kollar, RN

Release Date: 1-Aug-07 8:00 AM
Expiration Date: 31-Aug-09 8:00 AM

Estimated Time of Completion:
This activity should take approximately 60 minutes to complete.

Faculty:
Jules Rosen, M.D. is a Professor of Psychiatry at the Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic of the University of Pittsburgh. He is Chief of Consultation-Liaison and Nursing Home Services and the Director of the Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship Training Program. He was the Principal Investigator for Phases I and II grants funded by the National Institute on Aging to develop and assess the core curriculum of computer-based training for nursing homes personnel called “Solutions for Long-term Care”.

Test Writer:
Virginia McCarty, RN, CIC, LHRM is employed by AKH Inc. as CE Coordinator and is a diploma graduate nurse with certification in infection control and healthcare risk management. She is a member of the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) and Florida Risk Managers Association. Ms. McCarty has extensive background in teaching healthcare professionals the principles of infection control, OSHA bloodborne pathogens, hazardous waste management, risk management and documentation.

Disclosures:

Mr. Rosen discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Ms. Kollar discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Ms. McCarty discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Joint Sponsorship Statement:
Jointly sponsored by AKH Inc. and Fox Learning Systems.

To view the evaluation for this course please click here.

Fox Learning Systems: Universal Precautions

noemail@akhealthcare.com — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 12:00:00 GMT

Objectives:

Needs Statement: To safely practice in healthcare today, all healthcare workers must recognize the areas of potential exposure and practice the guidelines to protect themselves.

Goal: To To provide the information necessary for healthcare workers to protect themselves everyday and in a disaster situation by wearing personal protective gear and following the guidelines for handling biohazardous waste and chemicals.

Learning Objectives:
At the completion of this activity, participants should be able to:
1. To delineate the guidelines related to infection control in long term care.
2. To describe the appropriate methods to handle biohazardous waste and contaminated items.
3. To discuss the necessary information needed to protect oneself from chemical exoposure.
4. To briefly state safety practices for a disaster situation.

Instructor: Jules Rosen, M.D. & Marcia L. Kollar, RN

Release Date: 1-Aug-07 8:00 AM
Expiration Date: 31-Aug-09 8:00 AM

Estimated Time of Completion:
This activity should take approximately 60 minutes to complete.

Disclosures:

Mr. Rosen discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Ms. Kollar discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Ms. McCarty discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Joint Sponsorship Statement:
Jointly sponsored by AKH Inc. and Fox Learning Systems.

To view the evaluation for this course please click here.

Fox Learning Systems: Prevention of Pressure Ulcers

noemail@akhealthcare.com — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 12:00:00 GMT

Objectives:

Needs Statement: Residents in long term care facilities are at risk for pressure ulcer development especially if they are bedridden. Healthcare workers must be able to prevent, recognize and care for skin breakdown.

Goal: To provide the necessary information for healthcare workers in long term care facilities to provide appropriate skin care for the residents and prevent pressure ulcers..

Learning Objectives:
At the completion of this activity, participants should be able to:
1. To recognize the incidence and physiological changes involving pressure ulcers.
2. To state the risk factors and causes related to pressure ulcers.
3. To discuss skin assessment.
4. To describe guidelines to prevent and treat pressure ulcers.

Instructor: Jules Rosen, M.D. & Marcia L. Kollar, RN

Release Date: 1-Aug-07 8:00 AM
Expiration Date: 31-Aug-09 8:00 AM

Estimated Time of Completion:
This activity should take approximately 60 minutes to complete.

Disclosures:

Mr. Rosen discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Ms. Kollar discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Ms. McCarty discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Joint Sponsorship Statement:
Jointly sponsored by AKH Inc. and Fox Learning Systems.

To view the evaluation for this course please click here.

Fox Learning Systems: Fire Safety

noemail@akhealthcare.com — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 12:00:00 GMT

Objectives:

Needs Statement: Staff need instruction in fire and disaster prevention and safety, especially in long-term care facilities where the residents are often confused or unable to remove themselves from the disaster area. In the event of fire, healthcare workers must know how to protect themselves and the residents.

Goal: To provide the information necessary for healthcare workers to respond to a fire in the facility in a safe and effective manner.

Learning Objectives:
At the completion of this activity, participants should be able to:
1. Explain the acronyms related to fire response
2. State the guidelines to follow in investigating indications of a fire
3. Describe the proper means to evacuate residents including techniques for those with special needs.

Instructor: Jules Rosen, M.D. & Marcia L. Kollar, RN

Release Date: 1-Aug-07 8:00 AM
Expiration Date: 31-Aug-09 8:00 AM

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION FOR MODULE 11
FIRE and SAFETY

The following is supplemental information for the Fire and Safety module. Evacuation procedures including techniques to move non-ambulatory patients will be discussed, but first let’s begin with several practices to prevent fires and prevent further injury.

SAFETY RESPONSIBILITIES 1,2
All long term care facilities are required to have smoke detectors. Your responsibility is to report a periodic “beep” or “chirp” from a smoke detector as this indicates a low battery and should be changed immediately. NEVER disable a smoke detector.

Sprinklers will not work properly if they can’t spray appropriately. To prevent this, nothing is to be stored near a sprinkler head and everything should be stored 18 inches below the ceiling level.

Never block fire extinguishers or prop open fire or stairwell doors.

Never use an electrical device that has a frayed cord or one that you think is not safe. Don’t plug numerous electrical items into one socket or use an extension cord that is not an approved multiuse strip with a switch that shuts off if overloaded.

Know how to shut off all oxygen that is piped into the area. Oxygen tanks should be secured to stand in an upright position whether in use or stored. Never store them near a source of heat or open flame including lighted cigarettes. Never smoke a cigarette in bed.

SMOKE FILLED ROOMS 1
Smoke fills a room from the ceiling down so always be sure you, your residents, and visitors crawl from a smoke filled area. If it is not possible to exit the room, a wet blanket or towels should be used to block the opening at the bottom of the door. When the smoke is very thick, covering your mouth with a wet cloth is helpful. If you are trapped in an area from either smoke or a hot door, call 911 if a phone is available so you can be located. Signaling from a window is also an option.

PERSON on FIRE 1
If anyone’s clothing catches fire, remember they need to STOP, DROP, and ROLL to extinguish the flames. Running will spread the flames. If possible, the person should cover their face with their hands. You should cover the person with a blanket to extinguish the flames.

EVACUATION
The decision to evacuate is usually made by the person in charge at the scene of the fire. The policy of your facility will designate who that person is until the Fire Department arrives and then evacuation decisions will be made by the fire department. Obviously, you do not wait for an order to evacuate if you are in immediate danger.

TYPES of EVACUATION
There are different types of evacuations: horizontal, vertical, partial and complete.

Horizontal evacuation is movement on the same level usually from one fire compartment to the next. Fire compartments are designated by fire doors that are in hallways. Horizontal evacuation can be initiated by staff personnel to move from the area of smoke and fire.
Vertical evacuation involves movement from one level to another. NEVER EVACUATE UPWARDS! The decision to evacuate to lower levels is at the direction of senior administration and/or the fire department.
Partial or Complete evacuation refers to evacuation of either part of the facility or the entire facility. This decision is also made by the senior administration and/or the fire department.

EVACUATION PROCESS 3
Anyone in immediate danger must be moved without any delay. However, if there is no immediate danger, an evacuation should proceed as follows:

One person must be designated as being in charge of the unit and is responsible for quickly assessing each resident to determine the medical equipment necessary to safely transport them such as oxygen.
The person in charge groups everyone according to their ambulatory status and assigns personnel to evacuate specific groups.
The person assigned to each group notes the number of people in the group and accounts for each person after evacuation.
All oxygen and suction should be turned off by a designated person. Anyone requiring oxygen must have portable oxygen.
As residents are taken out of their rooms, each room door must be marked to designate it has been evacuated.
All residents need to have an identification band on and if there is not one, place a piece of tape or other form of identification on each resident with their name.
Family and other visitors must be included in the evacuation.
Non-ambulatory residents will be evacuated using wheelchairs and stretchers if possible or blankets and mattresses as discussed in the next section.
The person in charge of the area should assign someone to check that all rooms have been evacuated.
ALWAYS evacuate to a specific place.
DO NOT RE-ENTER THE BUILDING until the fire department gives permission.
REMAIN with your residents until further instructions are received.

EVACUATION PROCEDURE 4
After evacuating all persons in immediate danger, the order of priority for evacuation should be:

All walking residents and visitors
All wheelchair residents
All residents requiring a stretcher or bed

There are various techniques that can be used to evacuate non-ambulatory persons if wheelchairs and/or stretchers are not available. The following are examples of the types of techniques that can be used in an emergency by one or two people to move those not able to ambulate.5,6 These are not recommended if there is any suspicion that the person has a spinal injury. It is essential to use proper body mechanics to prevent injury to yourself.

One person carry is performed by placing the non-ambulatory resident on his back with his legs bent so that his feet touch the floor. Stand facing the resident and place your foot over his so that the front of your foot is on top of his foot. Bend your knees and reach down toward the resident and grasp his left hand with your right hand and his right hand with your left hand. While holding hands in this manner, lean backward. The resident will rise into an upright position as you continue to lean further backward. Once he is in the upright position, he will be facing you. Twist your body counterclockwise while lifting the resident’s hands over your head. Place your head through the opening between his arms. Leaning forward and downward on the resident’s arms, walk as though carrying a backpack.
Two person carry should be used if adequate rescuers are available. The two rescuers stand facing each other while the resident is lying between them on his back with his legs bent at a 90 degree angle. Squatting down, both rescuers slide an arm under the resident, crossing them so that they are grabbing each other’s shoulder. The other arm is placed under the resident’s thighs grasping each other’s wrist. The resident is lifted by the rescuers straightening their legs with their backs straight and carrying the resident to the safe area.
Dragging techniques can be done individually or by two or more rescuers if necessary. A sheet or a towel can be used by rolling it and placing it under the individual’s armpits and dragging them to a safe area. If nothing else is available, use their clothing but tuck their hands into their waist band first and pull them by holding tightly onto their clothing on either side of their neck to support their head. Back up, continually watching them. Pull them with the strength of the force being under their armpits and not their neck.
Stairwell techniques may be necessary if a vertical evacuation is required. There is specific equipment commercially available to accomplish this evacuation but if your facility does not have it, to protect your residents from injury, place mattresses end to end to cover the stairs. Slide the residents down the stairwell. Always have the resident slide feet first.

In conclusion, know the policies of your facility related to fire and evacuation. Practice some of the techniques during fire drills. Remain calm, use proper body mechanics, and keep yourself safe as well as your residents.

References
1. Office of Residential Life. Fire Safety Procedures. Available at: http://www.mtholyoke.edu/offices/reslife/policies/fire_proc.shtml Accessed 07/26/07
2. FEMA. U.S. Fire Administration. High-rise residents. Available at: http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/citizens/all_citizens/home_fire_prev/high-rise.shtm   Accessed 07/16/07
3. The University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center. Safety Plans. Available at:
http://hospitals.unm.edu/internet/policies_and_procedures/docs/preparedness_plans/University%20of%20New%20Mexico%20Hospital%20Evacuation%20Plan.doc Accessed 07/16/07
4. Office of State Fire Marshall. Policies, Practices, & Procedures for Health Care Facilities. http://oregon.gov/OSP/SFM/docs/Fire_Life_Safety/2005PPPManualLicensedCareFac7_06web.pdf   Accessed 07/20/07.
5. eHOW editor. How to carry an injured person. Available at: http://www.ehow.com     Accessed 07/19/07
6.   Hopper D. Lifting and moving patients. Available at: http://www.hopperinstitute.com/emt_lifting.html Accessed 07/16/07.

Estimated Time of Completion:
This activity should take approximately 60 minutes to complete.

Disclosures:

Mr. Rosen discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Ms. Kollar discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Ms. McCarty discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Joint Sponsorship Statement:
Jointly sponsored by AKH Inc. and Fox Learning Systems.

To view the evaluation for this course please click here.

Fox Learning Systems: Abuse & Residents Rights

noemail@akhealthcare.com — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 12:00:00 GMT

Objectives:

Needs Statement: Healthcare workers in long term care facilities must recognize the various types of elder abuse, the role they have in preventing it and the rights of each resident.

Goal: To provide the information necessary for healthcare workers to protect residents from all types of abuse and to facilitate the rights that each resident is entitled to have.

Learning Objectives:
At the completion of this activity, participants should be able to:
1. To differentiate the types of abuse.
2. To discuss the appropriate responses in various situations that could provoke abuse.
3. To state reporting requirements.
4. To describe residents rights and the people and processes involved in protection of these rights.

Instructor: Jules Rosen, M.D. & Marcia L. Kollar, RN

Release Date: 1-Aug-07 8:00 AM
Expiration Date: 31-Aug-09 8:00 AM

Estimated Time of Completion:
This activity should take approximately 60 minutes to complete.

Test Writer:
Virginia McCarty, RN, CIC, LHRM is employed by AKH Inc. as CE Coordinator and is a diploma graduate nurse with certification in infection control and healthcare risk management. She is a member of the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) and Florida Risk Managers Association. Ms. McCarty has extensive background in teaching healthcare professionals the principles of infection control, OSHA bloodborne pathogens, hazardous waste management, risk management and documentation.

Disclosures:

Mr. Rosen discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Ms. Kollar discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Ms. McCarty discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Joint Sponsorship Statement:
Jointly sponsored by AKH Inc. and Fox Learning Systems.

To view the evaluation for this course please click here.

Fox Learning Systems: Restraint Reduction and Falls

noemail@akhealthcare.com — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 12:00:00 GMT

Objectives:

Needs Statement: Current trends in long term care are to reduce the use of restraints and healthcare workers must be educated as to the process involved in accomplishing a restraint free environment.

Goal: To provide the information needed to establish a safe, restraint free environment for residents in long term care facility.

Learning Objectives:
At the completion of this activity, participants should be able to:
1. Identify the effects of restraints on residents
2. Recognize the relationship between restraints and falls
3. Outline the process for implementing a restraint free environment in a long term care facility

Instructor: Jules Rosen, M.D. & Marcia L. Kollar, RN

Release Date: 1-Aug-07 8:00 AM
Expiration Date: 31-Aug-09 8:00 AM

Estimated Time of Completion:
This activity should take approximately 60 minutes to complete.

Disclosures:

Mr. Rosen discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Ms. Kollar discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Ms. McCarty discloses no relevant financial relationships with pharmaceutical or medical product manufacturers.

Joint Sponsorship Statement:
Jointly sponsored by AKH Inc. and Fox Learning Systems.

To view the evaluation for this course please click here.