Assignment Task #1:
My presentation was about fall prevention technology. We have three different sensitivities: repositioning, moves to edge of bed, and left the bed. Personally, I don't like using the "left the bed" sensitivity because if a patient is a bad enough fall risk to put on the bed alarm, that sensitivity is not going to help much. The bed alarm does me no good if it's just telling me "hey, your patient just fell." Bed alarms may help improve response times in order to prevent a fall but a bed alarm will not prevent a fall on its own. (Patient Safety Authority, 2004). Another point I mentioned is that bed alarms are not integrated into EHR and has to be manually documented. I feel like if the bed boards at the charge desk can show which room has bed alarms engaged, it should translate into the chart as well.
Pennsylvania Patient Safety Authority (2004, September 1). Bed exit alarms to reduce fall risk: Advisory.
Assignment Task #2:
Sepsis is an overwhelming infection that can lead to total body failure. Approximately 270,00 Americans die from it each year. Symptoms of Sepsis are similar to many other illnesses, diagnosing it can be very challenging; however, studies have shown with early recognition, followed by aggressive treatment could have a better outcome (Perlin, 2019). When it comes to Sepsis, minutes matter and just as we have improved safety in our homes with smoke detectors that sniff out a possible fire. HCA uses a new technology called S-P-O-T Sepsis Prediction and Optimization of Therapy. The S-P-O-T technology works by using AI algorithm to monitor patients 24/7 and to sniff out and detect the first signs of sepsis by observing labs, vitals and symptoms as well as risk factors. Early diagnosis of sepsis allows prompt lifesaving treatment to save lives that can include but not limited to fluids, broad spectrum antibiotics and pressors if needed these treatments are called sepsis bundles (Perlin, 2019).
Reference: Perlin, J.B. (2018). HCA sepsis protocol: Improving patient outcomes through early detection and treatment. Presented at 2018 Investor Conference, Nashville, T.N. HCA