• Addressed resident handling injuries
  
  • $24,000 for lifting devices
    
  • Enforcement of rules
• Outcomes
  • 2002: 76 claims: $115K paid out in comp
  • 2003: 4 claims: $ 4K paid out in comp

Speaker Notes:

COUNTRYSIDE IS A NURSING HOME IN AURORA. THEY ARE JCAHO CERTIFIED.

Countryside nursing home wanted to address resident handling injuries that were not only costing them money, but affecting resident care.

The nursing facility purchased $24,000 in lifting devices. They also started focusing on behaviors -- how were the CNAs doing their job. Importantly, the nursing home enforced the use of lifting devices. For example, if you did not use a lift, you where given 3 days off. This was policed by lifting committee members.

This home implemented their program in a little over 6 months. Even with a more modest approach they saw similar reductions to Wyandot County Nursing Home in Workers Compensation costs, turnover and claims. Patient care improved. The Illinois Department of Public Health gave them a report with no violations for the nursing home. Their safety and health program is addressing all aspects of the home.

Countryside has just been accepted as a SHARP participant.