National Influenza Vaccination Week, which runs from December 4-8, is the perfect time to get a flu shot. This week highlights the importance of flu vaccines which are crucial in reducing the risk of illness, hospitalization, and even death.
Strengthening the Chain of Wound Prevention and Care.
Senior care facilities place a high priority on person-centered care and attending to the body, mind, and spirit of the whole resident. One critical facet of that care is skin health and wound management. The good news is that there are more technologies and treatments, as well as certification and training programs, to help maximize outcomes and quality of life.
Find out more by going to https://www.providermagazine.com/Issues/2023/Winter/Pages/Strengthening-the-Chain-of-Wound-Prevention-and-Care.aspx
Giving Thanks and Staying Vigilant.
This Thanksgiving, we extend our heartfelt thank you to our members who have been unwavering in their commitment to the well-being of the residents and staff.
In the spirit of unity and vigilance, AHCA/NCAL would like to remind providers about resources to support their infection prevention and control efforts this respiratory season.
- Free COVID-19 Tests Still Available from HHS
- New Respiratory Virus Season Resources Available from the CDC
- #GetVaccinated Toolkit
Let us continue to stand united in our commitment to health, safety, and the well-being of our communities.
Boost Your Geriatric Care Competency for Less Through November 17
- Lower rehospitalization rates for short stay and long stay residents
- Fewer deficiencies on average
- Fewer Immediate Jeopardy (IJ) citations
- More stars — twice as likely to be a CMS 5-Star facility (44% versus 19%)
New Resources Available to Enhance Vaccination Efforts in Long Term Care
AHCA/NCAL is happy to introduce new resources available on the #GetVaccinated website, including the latest “Frequently Asked Questions,” “Vaccine Co-Administration in Long Term Care,” and “Offering and Documenting Vaccines in Long Term Care.”
In the ever-evolving landscape of long term care, staying informed and equipped with the latest resources is paramount for providers.
Just For RNs: Boost Your Geriatric Care Competency for Less Through November 17
- Lower rehospitalization rates for short stay and long stay residents
- Fewer deficiencies on average
- Fewer Immediate Jeopardy (IJ) citations
- More stars — twice as likely to be a CMS 5-Star facility (44% versus 19%)
Deadline Approaching to Submit Comments on Proposed Minimum Staffing Rule
New Resource Available #GetVaccinated Reimbursement Guide
AHCA/NCAL unveiled a new resource to encourage and support vaccinations in long term care facilities this season. Their aim is to ensure that every member of the long term care community is well-informed about vaccine payment options, making it easier to prioritize their health and that of their residents.
Find out more at https://www.ahcancal.org/News-and-Communications/Blog/Pages/New-Resource-Available-GetVaccinated-Reimbursement-Guide.aspx
Gerontological Nursing Certification Improves Care Outcomes and Reduces Citations, Research Shows
Recent research suggests that board certification in gerontological nursing offers immense benefits for nursing facilities and residents alike. According to an analysis of U.S.-based providers conducted by AHCA/NCAL this year, facilities that employ at least one RN with ANCC board certification in gerontological nursing enjoy numerous advantages over the national average: higher five-star ratings and quality ratings, lower short-stay and long-stay rehospitalization rates, fewer deficiencies, and fewer costly immediate-jeopardy citations.
Despite the clear advantages of board-certification in gerontological nursing, however, only 1 percent of RNs have this credential. The University of Nebraska Medical Center’s Gero Nurse Prep course is designed to change this.
Read the full article at https://www.providermagazine.com/Articles/Pages/Gerontological-Nursing-Certification-Improves-Care-Outcomes-and-Reduces-Citations,-Research-Shows.aspx
Proposed Minimum staffing requirements for SNFs from CMS – What You Need to Know!
Thanks to one of our alert Gero Nurse Prep students for reminding us of the importance of this pending regulation.
To get the Fast Facts on the implications of this unfunded mandate, go here:
https://www.ahcancal.org/Advocacy/IssueBriefs/NEW%20unfunded%20staffing%20mandate_IB.pdf
AHCA/NCAL has set a goal of submitting more than 10,000 comments on this proposed rule between now and November 6th. To make your voice heard, go to:
https://www.votervoice.net/AHCA/Campaigns/103471/Respond [votervoice.net]