Skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) are facing a critical challenge that demands immediate attention. According to the latest findings from the National Pressure Injury Advisory Panel (NPIAP), nearly 30% of patients in SNFs are at risk of developing pressure injuries—a statistic that should alarm every healthcare leader.
Pressure injuries are more than just skin-deep. They can lead to long-term hospitalization, severe infections, and even death. Beyond the clinical consequences, facilities face legal, financial, and reputational risks, including lawsuits, regulatory penalties, and loss of public trust.
So, how can SNFs rise to meet this challenge? The answer lies in a proactive, evidence-based, and holistic approach to pressure injury prevention and management.
Why Pressure Injury Prevention Must Be a Top Priority
💰 Cost Savings
Preventing just one stage 3 or 4 pressure injury can save a facility over $40,000 in treatment costs. These injuries require intensive resources—specialized beds, dressings, medications, and staff time. Prevention reallocates those resources to other critical areas of care.
🏥 Improved Quality of Care
Pressure injuries can lead to serious complications like sepsis and death. Prevention improves patient outcomes and enhances the overall standard of care.
💸 Preserved Funding
Facilities with high pressure injury rates risk losing support from Medicare and Medicaid. Meeting quality metrics tied to pressure injury prevention helps secure ongoing funding.
⚖️ Reduced Legal Exposure
With over 17,000 lawsuits annually related to pressure injuries, facilities must protect themselves through diligent prevention and thorough documentation.
The 360° Pressure Injury Prevention & Management Model
A comprehensive strategy is essential. The Wound Prevention and Management Model offers a five-step framework for success:
1. Standardized Wound Assessment
Use validated tools to assess risk factors regularly. Incorporate digital imaging and consider physical, emotional, and systemic factors. Early detection is key.
2. Set SMART Goals
Develop goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For example: “Implement personalized care plans within 24 hours of admission.”
3. Assemble a Multi-Disciplinary Team
Include wound care nurses, therapists, dietitians, and caregivers. Ensure organizational support and clear communication protocols.
4. Establish and Implement a Plan of Care
Address root causes of compromised skin integrity. Optimize the wound environment with proper cleansing, moisture management, and advanced therapies.
5. Evaluate Efforts and Outcomes
Regularly reassess patients and care plans. Sustainability is key to preventing recurrence and maintaining high standards.
Best Practice Guidelines for SNFs
Pressure injury prevention is not just a clinical imperative—it’s a strategic one. Facilities that adopt a 360-degree approach benefit from:
- Better patient outcomes
- Lower treatment costs
- Improved compliance
- Reduced legal risk
Joerns Healthcare: Your Partner in Pressure Injury Prevention
At Joerns Healthcare, we understand the urgency and complexity of pressure injury prevention. Our team is committed to equipping SNFs with cutting-edge solutions, expert guidance, and data-driven strategies to improve patient care and operational efficiency.
📞 Ready to take action? Contact us today to learn how Joerns can help your facility implement a best-in-class pressure injury prevention program.
https://data.cms.gov/provider-data/topics/nursing-homes/quality-of-resident-care
https://cdn.ymaws.com/npiap.com/resource/resmgr/public_policy_files/npiap_word_fact_sheet_08mar2.pdf