After piloting a nurse rounding program in 2007, RHCI staff redesigned it and implemented a multi-disciplinary model in 2008. Expected results from such a program include reduction in call-light use, fewer falls, reduction in pressure sores, and increased patient and staff satisfaction.

"Within the first three months, we saw an eight percent increase in patient satisfaction scores from the very good to excellent category," says Maureen Jastrzebski, RN, CRRN, evening Nursing Supervisor. Staff also noted a 50% reduction in fall rate over the previous quarter.

To develop the program, RHCI staff researched other successful models, including those at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital and Shaughnessy-Kaplan Rehabilitation Hospital. RHCI's program is evidence-based and includes the best components of other successful programs tailored to meet the needs of RHCI's patient population. Staff check in with patients hourly during the day and every two hours at night to ensure that patients' needs are met. "The evidence clearly demonstrates superior outcomes from the one hour rounding practice," says Maureen.

In addition to nurses and rehabilitation aides, physical, occupational, speech and respiratory therapists are involved. At each rounding visit the staff member checks on the patient's need for toileting assistance, pain medication and other factors that relate to quality of care and the patient's experience. Staff regularly audit results and share the data with the team. The multi-disciplinary nature of the program plus the support of the leadership team are key components of the program's success.