Articles tagged with Nursing Homes
A new app aims to improve information exchange between hospitals and nursing homes, reducing adverse events. The app provides a seamless transition of care for patients, enabling nurses to access up-to-date information at their fingertips.
A new study highlights the experiences and needs of LGBTQ+ older adults living in nursing homes, outlining best facility practices for a welcoming environment. The research emphasizes the importance of respecting residents' autonomy and providing valuable resources for care.
This study reveals racial and ethnic differences in hospice use, with Hispanic and non-Hispanic Black individuals having lower odds of receiving hospice care. Hispanic individuals had the highest odds of a short hospice stay, highlighting potential barriers to access and acceptance among low-income populations.
A new study reveals that COVID-19 can leave a lasting impact on older adults living in nursing homes, causing them to need more help with daily activities and experience a decline in brain function. The study found that those who tested positive for COVID had effects that lasted up to nine months.
A U-M study links increased physical independence, gut microbiome disrupting antibiotics, and hand contamination to vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) environmental contamination in nursing homes. The study suggests that reducing antibiotic use and improving hand hygiene could control VRE spread.
Research by University of Colorado geriatrician Kenneth Lam found that the average person moving into a nursing home is already severely disabled and receiving 27 hours of care per week. Assisted living residents are less likely to be severely disabled but still receive significant support.
People with dementia experience a rapid rise in unpaid and paid home care, and major erosion of net worth. Family members face significant demands, providing an average of 45 hours of care per month.
Researchers found that using chlorhexidine bathing routine and an over-the-counter antiseptic to clean the nose can significantly reduce serious infections and antibiotic-resistant organisms in nursing homes. The study involved nearly 14,000 residents at 28 California nursing homes and showed a substantial reduction in hospital transfe...
A new NIH grant will survey healthcare workers caring for people with dementia, gathering data to inform better care and policy. The study aims to understand workforce shortages, payment policies, and regulation, with a focus on direct care workers often overlooked.
A new study by George Washington University found that unionization increases employer compliance with OSHA's reporting requirements, leading to safer nursing homes. Non-unionized nursing homes are less likely to report workplace injuries and illnesses, making it difficult for policymakers to track and prevent these incidents.
A large population study found that unhealthy lifestyles between ages of 60 and 64 are associated with a doubling in the risk of nursing home admission. Physical inactivity, smoking, poor diet, and sleep disorders were linked to an increased risk of care, particularly among 60-64 year olds.
A new study by MU researcher Roy Thompson found that immigrant nurses in long-term care facilities often have more 'human capital' than their American-born counterparts, including language skills and additional certifications. This diversity can improve patient health outcomes and create a more equitable workforce.
A new study found that federal government's Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans improved staffing levels at nursing homes during the pandemic. Loans reached understaffed facilities, increasing staff hours among certified nursing assistants and licensed practical nurses.
A Cochrane review reveals that organizational interventions can reduce the use of physical restraints in care home residents by 14%, without increasing falls or fall-related injuries. Supportive managers play a crucial role in implementing these interventions, which improve knowledge, skills, and strategies among frontline staff.
A multidisciplinary team will investigate six antibiotic-resistant organisms, including MRSA and VRE, in 50 nursing homes using computer simulation models and scientific methods. The research aims to elucidate detection methods, spread drivers, and risk factors for MDROs, informing infection prevention policies.
A nationwide study of 11,000 older adults found that social isolation significantly increased the risk of skilled nursing facility stays and nursing home placement over two years. The study suggests that enhancing social contact at home or in community settings may help delay or deter nursing home entry.
A new study found that COVID-19 vaccines significantly reduced dementia-related deaths in long-term care and nursing homes, with a 77% decrease in the second year. However, deaths among those living at home did not decline as much, with only a 16% reduction.
New research reveals low use of monoclonal antibodies and oral antiviral drugs in US nursing homes, despite high risk of resident populations. The study analyzed data from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention National Healthcare Safety Network during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Researchers at the University of Sydney have developed a photonic radar system that can accurately detect pauses in breathing patterns remotely. The system has been tested on cane toads and simulated human breathing devices, demonstrating its potential for non-invasive vital sign monitoring in clinical environments.
A recent study found that elderly patients treated in local intermediate care units have lower mortality rates and fewer hospital readmissions. The research suggests that Norway's healthcare system has improved with the introduction of these units, providing better integrated services adapted to individual users.
A novel nurse-driven virtual care model has been developed to support long-term nursing home residents. The model, based on an existing in-person care model, aims to enhance resident care by leveraging nurses' expertise and access to electronic medical records.
A recent study found that nursing homes serving Black residents have higher rates of hospitalizations and emergency department visits. The researchers attributed this to lower ratios of registered nurses and certified nursing assistants, as well as other structural characteristics.
A UC Irvine-led study found that nursing home residents with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias receive better care when they make up the majority of the population. However, most facilities accommodate a diverse range of residents, highlighting the need for enhanced staff training.
A quality improvement study found widespread underreporting of major injury falls and pressure ulcers in nursing homes. The study suggests that alternative approaches to measuring quality are needed to address these disparities.
A recent $800,000 grant from the Missouri Department of Economic Development will train 300 MU students as part-time nurse assistants at MU Health Care. This three-year initiative will create a paid opportunity for nearly 100 MU students each year to earn work experience and reduce the need for student loans.
A new study found that vaccination significantly reduces the risk of severe COVID-19 illness among nursing home residents aged 85 and older. The study, which examined data from 23,172 fully vaccinated residents, showed that just 5% developed a breakthrough infection, with less than 10% requiring hospitalization or dying within 30 days.
A new study found that frequent COVID surveillance testing protected nursing home residents by detecting infected staff earlier, disrupting transmission chains. The research showed that high testing frequency facilities had clinically meaningful reductions in resident cases and deaths, particularly before vaccine availability.
Researchers developed models to estimate individuals' risk of fall-related injuries in nursing homes, achieving good discrimination and excellent calibration. The models can be used by clinicians to target preventive strategies and accurately determine patient risk.
A University of Gothenburg study reveals that dementia is the dominant risk factor for COVID-19 infection and mortality among residents of Swedish nursing homes. Early-onset dementia was found to be the strongest association with increased mortality rates, particularly in the 65–75 age group.
Researchers identified four distinct long-term pain trajectories in nursing home residents, shedding light on risk factors associated with persistent pain. The study highlights the need to improve pain assessment and evaluation, particularly among vulnerable populations like those with Alzheimer's disease.
A study finds that aggressive end-of-life care remains common among older adults with metastatic cancer, particularly in nursing home residents. Multilevel interventions targeting hospital admissions and in-hospital death are crucial to reducing its prevalence.
The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine report outlines bold and actionable recommendations to transform nursing home care delivery and environment. The Moving Forward Nursing Home Quality Coalition has been established to take action on these issues and improve nursing home quality nationwide.
A study by Brown University researchers found that night shift nursing home staff had significantly lower rates of COVID-19 testing and primary vaccination compared to day shift staff. The study highlights the importance of considering work shifts in designing workplace health interventions.
A new study published in Evolution, Medicine, and Public Health found that proper hand hygiene in clinical work can reduce the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The researchers developed a mathematical model to predict how good or poor hygiene affects resistance evolution, and tested it against data from 691 long-term care facil...
A US study of 15,000 nursing homes found that pre-Omicron vaccination boosts reduced COVID-19 cases and deaths among residents and staff. Newer variants rendered original vaccine less effective.
New research reveals that California nursing homes exposed to wildfire risks have poorer compliance with emergency preparedness standards. The study found that 83.9% of these facilities had at least one deficiency compared to 76.9% of unexposed ones.
A new study found that prioritizing part-time employees can significantly improve the consistency of care in long-term care facilities. By consistently assigning part-time workers and having flexible full-time workers, facilities can reduce the average number of different nursing assistants a resident interacts with by 20-30% each month.
Administration of vaccine boosters to nursing home residents significantly reduces SARS-CoV-2 infections and hospitalizations. The study suggests that booster vaccination may play a crucial role in preventing COVID-19-related morbidity and mortality among vulnerable populations.
A new study estimates that at least 2.5 million 'sandwich generation' caregivers are serving as primary caregivers for both older and younger family members. These women face higher rates of financial difficulty and emotional distress compared to their peers who only care for an older adult.
A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that antiepileptic prescribing to US nursing home residents with Alzheimer's Disease and dementia increased between 2015 and 2019. In contrast, antipsychotic and opioid prescribing rates declined during this period
Researchers found significant regional differences in LTC spending, driven by factors such as population demographics and disability classification. Preventive measures may help reduce costs by reducing the need for long-term care.
A $1 million NIH grant will help MU researchers analyze the effectiveness of a HIPAA-secure text messaging platform in nursing homes. The study aims to improve quality of care and prevent costly hospital transfers by speeding up decision-making.
Two new studies published in NEJM Catalyst demonstrate the remarkable effectiveness of telemedicine in addressing access barriers and improving health outcomes. The research highlights the benefits of telemedicine for patients with transportation challenges, mental health services, and overall quality of care.
Researchers found that SARS-CoV-2 antibody levels remained high for at least 6 months after vaccination, providing long-term protection against subsequent infection. The study involved 2,100 West Virginia nursing home residents and staff who received COVID-19 vaccination.
A study published in JAMA Health Forum found that COVID vaccine mandates for nursing home staff led to increased vaccination rates, with larger effects in Republican-leaning counties. The mandates did not significantly contribute to reported staffing shortages.
Researchers at the University of Chicago found that Medicare residents in US nursing homes report only 59.7% of pressure ulcers, with disparities affecting Black and Hispanic residents, who experience more severe stage 4 ulcers.
Research reveals that nursing homes in disadvantaged neighborhoods have lower clinical staff hours compared to those in more well-off areas. This disparity is particularly pronounced for registered nurses and physical therapists.
Researchers at the University of South Australia have developed tiny optical fibre sensors to monitor movement and record vital signs, reducing the risk of pressure sores. The technology can detect when patients remain motionless for extended periods, prompting nurses to adjust their position.
Staff turnover affects both residents and their families, compromising the quality of care. Continuity of nursing home staff and leadership is essential for delivering personalized care, as frontline workers deliver 90% of care. Researchers emphasize the need to attract and retain well-trained staff who enjoy working with older adults.
A study of nursing homes found that states with vaccine mandates had higher staff vaccination rates and fewer staffing shortages compared to those without mandates. This suggests that vaccine mandates can lead to improved vaccination coverage among healthcare workers, reducing the risk of COVID-19 outbreaks in long-term care facilities.
A study of nearly 3,000 nursing homes found severe COVID-19 outbreaks resulted in temporary increases in contract staff and overtime, but these measures did not fully replace lost staff. The staffing declines remained significant for 16 weeks after the outbreak's start.
The Avoidable Transfer Scale identifies potentially avoidable hospitalizations in nursing home residents based on EHR data. The tool enables nursing homes to focus on trends and process improvements, benefiting residents and reducing healthcare costs.
A new study found that the fourth COVID-19 vaccine reduces the risk of death among elderly individuals in long-term care facilities by 72%. The study, which included approximately 40,000 residents, also showed a significant reduction in hospitalizations and infections.
A new study by University of Missouri found that Black nursing home residents and those under 65 are significantly more likely to experience repeat hospital transfers. This phenomenon can be attributed to various factors including 'full-code' status regarding end-of-life care, comorbidities, and inadequate staffing. The study suggests ...
A study by the University of South Florida found that nursing home chains can achieve improved financial performance by standardizing staff ratios while having a similar percentage of Medicaid patients among residents. Customizing services tailored to local demand and competition leads to increased resident welfare, but may compromise ...
A new study found that COVID-19 booster shots significantly increase neutralizing antibodies in nursing home residents and their caregivers, offering improved protection against Omicron variants. This research highlights the importance of booster vaccinations for vulnerable populations, including those living at home.
A California skilled nursing facility improved hand hygiene rates, increased PPE compliance, and reduced catheter-associated urinary tract infections by hiring a dedicated infection preventionist. The team's results demonstrate the value of having a full-time IP to implement best practices and train staff.
A decade-long effort to reduce medication risks for nursing home residents with dementia has shown some positive results, but also unintended consequences. Fewer people are receiving antipsychotic and anti-anxiety drugs, which can raise the risk of falling or dying, but more are receiving alternative behavior-changing medications with ...
Researchers found that care coordinators identifying illnesses early and providing timely care allowed most residents to 'age in place,' reducing need for nursing home care. Exercise and socialization opportunities also improved physical and mental health outcomes.
A new poll by the National Poll on Healthy Aging finds that many older adults are not prepared for aging in place, despite wanting to live independently. The poll highlights the importance of planning for home modifications and social support, particularly for those without family members to care for them.