Community Sharing CSED0018

Don't Skip a Beat! Hit a Home Run After Cardiac Surgery

Author(s): Janice Belen, BSN, RN, Danielle Delice, BSN, RN, Shirleta Henson-McKann, BS, RN, Paige Lumley, BSN, RN

CERP C 0.25

Expires Jun 06, 2027

Topics: Cardiovascular, Patient Safety

Population: Adult

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This activity will be recognized for Synergy CERPs hours for the education presented.

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Activity Summary

The average LOS of post-cardiac surgery patients on our unit during the months of January through May of 2021 was 12 days. Our CSI team’s goal was to decrease that LOS 10% with early discharge planning that included all members of the interdisciplinary team. Throughout our project, we encountered various challenges, such as an increased volume of COVID-19 patients. These patients’ discharges were delayed awaiting placement to subacute rehabilitation centers or long-term care. In addition, we encountered increased patient acuity during our unit’s transition to a step-down unit from an acute care unit. As a result, we were unable to meet our original goal of decreasing LOS. However, we successfully changed the way the interdisciplinary team collaborates to ensure safe and timely discharges for our patients.

Objectives

  • Discuss key concepts of a direct care nurse unit change project
  • Apply tools and methods shared in their own unit

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Providing access to an educational activity does not imply endorsement by AACN of the content or any products mentioned.

Continuing Education Recognition Points (CERPs) are recognized by the AACN Certification Corporation to fulfill educational requirements for certification. Some state boards of nursing and other certification organizations may recognize CERPs as meeting CE Contact Hour requirements. Nurses should consult with their state board or credentialing organization before submitting CERPs to fulfill CE Contact Hour requirements.