Adequately preparing new graduate nurses for contemporary practice remains a challenge. This innovative mixed-method study explored the impact of a dedicated education unit on new graduate nurses’ transition to practice. Results indicated that new graduate nurses with dedicated education unit experience were better prepared for contemporary practice compared to their peers with traditional clinical experiences. This study highlights the positive impact collaborative clinical teaching models can have on preparing new graduate nurses for practice.
Background: Research is limited regarding utilization of The Hill-Rom bed exit system with audible alarm in conjunction with the hospital protocol to reduce falls among patients admitted to inpatient units in the hospital.
Objective:To evaluate the effectiveness of an education program to improve knowledge and skills on zeroing and activation of The Hill-Rom bed exit system with audible alarm in conjunction with hospital protocol to reduce falls rate on a medical-surgical unit of an acute care hospital.
Method:A quantitative, descriptive correlational design (n=32) was used to examine the effect of an education program and skills on the pre and post-test scores and post-intervention skills on zeroing and activation of The Hill-Rom bed exit system with audible alarm to falls rate on a medical-surgical unit.Results: A sample t-test was used to examine the effectiveness of education on pre-test and post-test scores. The post-test mean was 2.65 greater, t= 8.048, p=.000. The results were statistically significant with gain of knowledge and skills post intervention. This gain in knowledge and skills was directly related to a 55% decrease in falls rate from 5.8 to 3.2 per 1,000 patient days. A one-way ANOVA examined the difference in means between the knowledge gained of the registered nurses and certified nursing assistants. There was no significant difference within and between groups.
Conclusion:Staff education and continued use of The Hill-Rom bed exit system with audible alarm along with the hospital protocol were associated with decrease in falls rates on a medical surgical unit of an academic medical center.
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