Nurses

COVID-19 has presented many unique challenges related to the completion of the Minimum Data Set (MDS) and care planning in general. The unique circumstances brought on by the pandemic as it relates to the MDS will be discussed. There will be a review of the appropriate ICD-10 codes for various COVID-19 situations and symptoms, and the RAI manual instructions for capturing isolation. We will also explore unique care planning tips and considerations related to the pandemic.

Recognizing and implementing best practices to promote the healing and/or management of community-acquired pressure ulcers, neuropathic ulcers, chronic wounds and surgical incisions is key to minimizing the risk of re-hospitalizations, as well as minimizing the scrutiny of surveyors and litigators. This session will provide a step-by-step approach for accurately identifying and treating various types of wounds. There are many treatment options available to interdisciplinary health care teams to promote healing. Current evidence-based treatment modalities, including dressings, wound-care products and preventative techniques when caring for patients with acute or chronic wounds, will be reviewed.

Infection prevention and control has taken center stage as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to plague the country. To keep your residents and tenants safe, all health care professionals need a total understanding of how to prevent the spread of infections and viruses. In this session, we will explore infection control practices to prevent the introduction of COVID-19, as well as mitigate and control the spread of this respiratory virus within long-term care facilities.

Long-term care providers know that accurate documentation (also known as charting, recording and reporting) is an important component of their professional and legal responsibilities. Nursing standards of practice have specific guidelines and competencies that address quality documentation, not just “good” charting. The purpose of this nursing documentation session is to review the knowledge and practical skills needed to ensure that accurate documentation takes place. The documentation must not only meet professional and employer standards, but it must also be acceptable to our legal system.

Many strides and efforts go into a restorative care program, and preventing lost ground due to resident isolation takes serious thought and planning. This program will explore the many alternatives during isolation or quarantine. Innovation and enhanced skills are often key to strategic and satisfying restorative care sessions for both resident and the caregiver. Expanding restorative equipment and supplies, in addition to adding environmental enhancements, can make a significant difference in gaining participation and reaching resident goals. Tips and techniques will be shared during this dynamic virtual learning session.

Attendees will hear the challenges faced by patients, families and the hospital when inappropriate transfers and/or involuntary discharges occur. Learn how to help your staff, residents, tenants, patients and families make better transfer decisions and how your organization can better prepare for often inevitable changes in conditions or emergencies that precipitate the need to be seen in emergency services. There will also be a discussion about the Iowa Physician Orders for Scope of Treatment (IPOST) law, including specific emphasis on what distinguishes it from advanced directives and surrogate decision-making. Attention will be paid to the “Comfort Only” designation, how it is distinguished from “DNR” and how this should direct care for patients.

More and more people who have dementia and their caregivers are discovering the many benefits technology can provide with stimulating activities, cognitive care and non-pharmacological behavior management. This enlightening session will review current innovations with the use of technology in the care of persons with dementia. Participants will gain a general understanding of available technology and how it can improve quality of life for residents, how to integrate technologies in the care of people living with dementia, and an overview of the impact and outcomes that technology can bring to those living with dementia.