Medsurg nursing : official journal of the Academy of Medical-Surgical Nurses
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Despite the existence of accepted guidelines to prevent pressure ulcers, interventions are not performed consistently. Many variables, including nurses' attitudes, contribute to the development of pressure ulcers. A review of the literature on nurses' attitudes toward pressure ulcer prevention is provided.
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The Situation-Background-Assessment-Recommendation (SBAR) protocol was used to improve shift reports and interdisciplinary rounding. On a medical-surgical unit, observations were conducted before and after implementation. Both processes were significantly shorter and more consistent. SBAR enabled more focused and efficient communication.
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Delirium is an acute change in mental status typically caused by a medical condition. Delirium complicates care, increases safety risks, and has a negative impact on patient outcome. By identifying mental status changes early, the nurse is in a strategic position to prevent delirium in 30%-40% of at-risk patients. An interdisciplinary team approach can prevent, diagnose, and treat delirium to improve safety, reduce cost of care, and optimize patient outcomes.