[Sharon]

Part 1. Write a 300-word discussion post answering the following questions:
• What data does your organization currently collect that you could use to help answer your research questions?
• What methods do they use to collect this data?
• Explain how you would collect the data required to answer your research question?

HINT: You may have to ask your manager or other leaders

Part 2. Comment on one other participant’s post:

[Jennifer]

Data about patient/client/resident care is collected by healthcare organizations and providers. Thinking about your research question – explore what types of data is being collected that may help to address your research question from week 1. Hint: You may need to speak with your supervisor or colleagues.

Write a 300-word discussion post to describe the following
• The type of data your organization collects that may help to address the research question you identified in week 1?
• The methods they use to collect the data (e.g., survey’s, health assessments etc)
• Explain how you would collect the data that is needed to help address the research question you identified in week 1.

Jen C.

[Attila]

In all three Extendicare long-term care homes, I work collect pain assessment information the same way.

Their primary tool is the pain assessment score, which has two different input windows. One is a 0-10 numerical scale for cognitive patients, while the other is for residents with dementia called the Pain Assessment in Advanced Dementia (PAINAD) scale. Both scales provide a number representing the pain level of the resident. Nurses also have access to the residents’ medical records, where they can see details about medical administration, the regularity of administration, and the occasional refusal or missed doses. They can read the notes on changes in behaviour that may indicate pain, such as agitation or withdrawal. The charge nurse has access to the resident’s health records if required. At regular family meetings, they can get input from family members regarding the residents’ pain levels and responses to treatment.

We collect data in several ways to comprehensively assess the resident’s pain levels and physical status. They go through comprehensive health assessments at the time of intake and also once a year. Family members can provide input about their loved ones. Staff members chart on residents’ behaviours and signs and symptoms of pain. PSWs are very good at observing changes in the resident’s behaviour, responses, mood, and mental state since they spend considerable time with them daily; therefore, they are more aware of subtle changes. Nurses take these reports of change seriously because they can be a precursor to more severe problems.

To address my research question, “In people with dementia, do specialized nurse training programs compared to standard care improve pain management?” I would collect data using the following approach:
• Conduct pain assessments before and after implementing specialized nurse training programs using standardized tools like PAINAD.
• Using questionnaires to evaluate nurses’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding pain management before and after the training.
• Organizing focus groups to discuss experiences and the perceived effectiveness of the training programs.
• By reviewing medication records and pain assessment scores from the resident’s chart, we can identify changes in pain management practices and outcomes.
• By monitoring and documenting resident behaviour changes indicative of pain before and after the training intervention.

[Jennifer]

Discussion Post 2: How can we ensure our residents understand the importance of proper wound management?

To answer the research question, “How can we ensure our residents understand the importance of proper wound management?”. One source of data is the results from resident satisfaction surveys, which will include questions about their understanding of wound care protocols and education provided on topics like wound management. Additionally, Patient Safety Reports (PSRS) related to wound care complications can provide insights into residents’ adherence.

Our organization typically uses a combination of electronic health records (EHR) and direct feedback mechanisms, such as surveys and focus groups, to gather data. EHRs can track wound healing progress, wound assessments (photos) to visually see improvement or deterioration, documentation of education provided, and adherence to care protocols, while surveys and focus groups can offer qualitative data on residents’ understanding and perceptions regarding wound care.

To collect additional data specifically addressing my research question, I would propose a multi-faceted approach. First, I would conduct a structured survey targeting residents, focusing on their understanding of wound management principles, awareness of proper techniques, and knowledge of potential complications. This survey could be distributed during routine health assessments or through digital platforms, ensuring a broad reach.

Second, I would suggest organizing focus group discussions with residents to gather qualitative insights into their perspectives on wound management education. This would allow for a deeper understanding of their concerns, beliefs, and any barriers they face in following proper wound care protocols.

Lastly, collaborating with nursing staff to analyze documentation within EHRs regarding wound assessments and education provided can reveal patterns in knowledge gaps, helping tailor future training programs. Combining these methods will provide a comprehensive view of residents’ understanding and inform strategies to enhance their education on wound management.

[Attila]

Electronic Health records are great source of information. We need to keep privacy and confidentiality in mind when accessing these records. At my place, I am currently going trhrough a mandatory training to be able to access these records. It is imperative that we adhere to these privacy standards.

Attila

[Author]

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