Enhancing Quality Improvement Adoption in US Nursing Homes

The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated and illuminated quality failings in nursing homes, persistent equity issues, and the system- and policy-level factors that contribute to their endurance. To begin seeking ways to address these issues, the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI) conducted a 90-day innovation project to identify key activities to increase adoption of effective quality improvement practices in US nursing homes.

To inform the work, IHI conducted a literature scan focused on quality improvement in US nursing homes and the Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) program; 20+ expert interviews; and a site visit to one high-performing nursing home.

This report summarizes the research findings and presents some recommendations for organizations seeking to work with nursing homes to improve quality.

Ensuring Equitable Care: Understanding the Role of Trauma and Stigma in the Lives of Residents with a History of Addiction and Who Experience Chronic Pain

New Resource for Nursing Home Educators

IPRO and the Opioid Response Network (ORN) have
developed an education series for use by nursing home
staff educators. This education series will address the
often missed, yet impactful issues of addiction, trauma,
stigma, and chronic pain management.
This pre-packaged, two-month, six-module education
series includes:
• Three live webinars, with Delores Blackwell, PhD
(before, during and after the series) for educators to
review the education materials supplied and receive
support in presenting the content.
Educational content for all staff in a series of six
education sessions designed to last 25-30 minutes
each. Included for each session:
▪ Six prerecorded modules (15 minutes)
▪ Written materials to support discussion led by the
educator (10-15 minutes)

Federal Plain Language Guidelines

The Plain Language Action and Information Network offers a variety of introductory classes on plain language. Plain language makes it easier for the public to read, understand, and use government and other communications. You may use their materials for self-study or to create your own class. The website includes videos, online training, train-the-trainer boot camp and tips for starting a plain language program.

Get to Know Me

One of the most important steps in providing quality dementia care is familiarity with the person. These resources can be used to provide insight into the residents’ preferences, life history, and qualities that make them unique. Knowing this information can foster a more relaxed relationship between the resident and care providers. The facility can post this resource where it is accessible to all staff working with the resident.

Get to Know Me

Get to Know Me: Tips for Use

Feel free to contact (ipronursinghometeam@ipro.org) the IPRO nursing home team for assistance with Dementia Care or Psychotropic reduction.

Get to Know Me – Spanish Version

One of the most important steps in providing quality dementia care is familiarity with the person.
This resource can be used to provide insight into the residents’ preferences, life history, and qualities that make them unique. Knowing this information can foster a more relaxed relationship between the resident and care providers. The facility can post this resource where it is accessible to all staff working with the resident.

Feel free to contact the IPRO nursing home team for assistance with Dementia Care or Psychotropic reduction.

Get to Know Me – Transitions, Transfers, Appointments

“One of the most important steps in providing quality dementia care is to know
the person with dementia.
This resource can provide insight into the resident to avoid triggers that could
result in disruptions due to changes in the environment and care providers.
The form has fillable fields and should be printed and sent with the resident/patient when they will be in an unfamiliar environment. “