LM202 - Sound Strategies for Reducing Falls: Bridging the Gap Between Audiology and Acute Care Nursing by Reducing Hospital Re-admission Through Collaboration with Your Community Hospitals

Abstract:
As a Registered Nurse with many years of Acute Care experience in ED and Critical care, and as an audiologist for many years, we will discuss the readmission rates from falls, and how to reduce it through educating your community’s hospitals. This is of significant concern, as it leads to increased morbidity and healthcare costs, and reduced quality of life. We are passionate about educating other RN’s and interdisciplinary teams through the local audiologist, regarding the vestibular system to encourage a change in patient pathways admitted due to falling.

Summary:
In the presentation, two experienced professionals from healthcare and audiology join forces to address a pressing issue—hospital readmissions related to falls among adults in acute care settings.

With one presenter's background as a Registered Nurse with a decade of experience in ED and Critical Care, and the other's expertise as an audiologist of ten years, they bring a unique perspective to the table. Their shared goal is to enlighten healthcare professionals, particularly Registered Nurses, about the critical role of audiology in fall prevention and patient pathway improvements.

The presentation begins by highlighting the alarming consequences of falls, including increased morbidity, escalated healthcare costs, and a diminished quality of life for patients. The presenters stress the urgent need to spread awareness among healthcare facilities and teams to tackle this issue head-on.

To gather insights, they surveyed 63 Acute Care Registered Nurses. The survey findings were revealing; only a handful of nurses were aware of the audiologist's role in fall prevention. This knowledge gap is a cause for concern, especially when compared to the widespread familiarity with Otolaryngologists (ENT).

The key takeaway is clear: there is an immediate and substantial need for education and training regarding the vestibular system's role among all acute care nurses. Understanding the vestibular system's functions empowers nurses to identify at-risk patients and implement targeted interventions, ultimately preventing falls.

Moreover, the presentation highlights the pivotal role audiologists play in evaluating and managing auditory disorders. By promoting collaboration with interdisciplinary care teams, nurses can suggest patient pathway changes, significantly reducing the risk of readmissions related to falls and enhancing safety outcomes. These improvements lead to more positive patient experiences.

In line with their mission to educate and raise awareness, the presentation includes practical learning objectives. Attendees will gain valuable insights into reducing hospital readmissions related to falls. They will also learn how to create compelling and informative flyers tailored to nurses and hospital systems. These materials will effectively communicate the significance of audiology in preventing fall-related readmissions.

In summary, the presentation offers a unique perspective on addressing a critical healthcare issue. By enlightening nurses about the importance of audiology in fall prevention and readmission reduction, the presenters aim to enhance patient care, improve safety outcomes, and ultimately contribute to a healthier and safer healthcare environment.