Recognizing Change of Condition

McKnight’s reported that new research by University of Missouri shows that 11 providers were able to recapture $32 million in revenue by reducing avoidable hospitalizations. Full study findings were published in the latest issue of the Journal of Nutrition, Health and Aging.

The new study proves that operators can reduce costs and increase revenues by having staff detect illnesses to avoid hospitalization. It also happens to be the right thing to do as well. Nursing homes need more staff to recognize changes of condition.

Lead author Marilyn Rantz serves as Curators’ Professor Emerita at the university’s Sinclair School of Nursing. She said:

“Early illness recognition is key to identifying clinical problems before they become much worse, and the advanced practical registered nurses played a big role in helping the staff make the proper assessments. Whether it’s pneumonia, the flu or a urinary tract infection, If the care providers are letting patients’ health decline to the point where you have no choice but to transfer them to the hospital, you let the problem go way too long.”  

This should be no surprise. Recognizing change of conditions are essential. Quality of care requires adequate recognition.