Improving The Care Of The Elderly - 1305 Words

Evidenced Based Practice for Quality Improvement The purpose of this paper is to discuss how to improve the care of the elderly. In greater detail, I will be discussing fall and fall-risk programs. Fall programs are an essential key when it comes to caring for the elderly. Prevention is the first essential step in the prevention of falls. Falls among the elderly are a common problem, which may result in serious physical, psychological, and financial problems for the patient who has fallen, their family, and care-giving staff (Burland, Martens, Brownell, Doupe, Fuchs, 2013). As we age, even the simplest accident or fall can prove to be a life threatening ordeal. Age Related Challenges As the human body ages, a series of physiological changes begin to take place in a common series of events which may be a precursor to falling and falling related injuries. One of these physical degradations relates to the loss of bone density in the skeletal system. Among other numerous changes occurring that could help facilitate in a fall include loss of vision, impaired mobility as well as overall cognitive function. When providing care to a patient who presents a fall risk status, there are measures that can be taken to prevent injuries. Such measures include utilizing bed-exit alarms; call lights for immediate assistance; color coded socks and arm bands for staff awareness. Various learning material provided to staff can educate them on how to recognize and addressShow MoreRelatedThe Importance Of Quality Assurance And Performance Improvement1558 Words   |  7 Pagesimprove the care of the elderly population, especially in nursing homes. Throughout the paper, the general changes that the older adults go through their life will be discussed. Overview of five articles that are related to the elements of Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) will be given. 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