long-term care infection prevention
long-term care infection prevention
By Buffy Lloyd-Krejci , DrPH , MS , CIC , LTC-CIP
Reflections on the Journey : Celebrating Small Wins in Healthcare Improvement
Celebrating small wins is crucial , especially in healthcare ’ s challenging environments . Recognize that each achievement , no matter how minor it may seem , contributes to the overall progress and well-being of patients and staff .”
As I travel abroad , I reflect on the past few years . Since 2020 , our world has undergone significant positive changes , while others have not . Reflecting on my experiences and work during this period brings a mix of emotions . There ’ s a tinge of sadness as I realize I haven ’ t done a great job celebrating the small wins due to my focus on the larger tasks ahead .
I recently visited a nursing home I ’ ve supported for four years . I was proud of the progress and numerous improvements they had achieved . Despite my compliments , the staff remained focused on the remaining work , highlighting the extensive renovations needed for the over-50-year-old building . Their perspective mirrored my own tendency to overlook small achievements in the face of ongoing challenges .
In 2022 , I wrote and published BROKEN : How the Global Pandemic Uncovered a Nursing Home System in Need of Repair and the Heroic Staff Fighting for Change . The book details my experiences in over 200 nursing homes during the pandemic and critiques the punitive regulatory system that hindered effective care . Despite presenting at more than 20 in-person conferences , participating in dozens of podcasts , and publishing multiple articles , I struggled to appreciate these accomplishments amid the broader systemic issues .
Reflecting on the past two years , I ’ ve gained a new perspective . If I don ’ t celebrate the small wins often , especially in healthcare , where human lives and suffering are at stake , burnout will be more prevalent , and progress may feel impossible .
I realize I need to celebrate the small wins and recognize their cumulative impact on larger goals . For instance , my book advocates for trained and certified infection preventionists in long-term care . Now , such a certification program exists through the Association for Professionals in Infection Prevention and Control and Epidemiology ( APIC ), known as the LTC-CIP . Another proactive solution that I wrote about was improving staffing ratios . Over the past year , there has been a tremendous effort in D . C . to increase staffing ratios , which we know supports a healthier workforce and promotes improved patient safety and care . We can celebrate these two huge wins despite other solutions still lagging .
So , how can we do this practically and effectively ? Begin by breaking down your larger goals into smaller , manageable tasks . Establish clear , measurable objectives for each phase of your plan . If your goal is to reduce urinary tract infections , identify specific actions that will support this goal and acknowledge the efforts of your team in implementing them . For example , if alcohol-based handrub ( ABHR ) was previously absent in residents ’ rooms , installing the dispensers is your first big win . The next step would be auditing hand hygiene compliance . This can be done by developing a system for conducting regular audits , providing education , and offering constructive feedback . Consider encouraging the staff to share their wins as well , which will create a culture of continuous improvement .
Additionally , consider implementing a reward system for milestones achieved . Small tokens of appreciation or recognition can boost morale and motivate staff to maintain high standards . Regularly review and adjust your strategies based on feedback and outcomes , ensuring your goals remain relevant and achievable . Engage with your team often to set new targets and celebrate each step forward .
Celebrating small wins is crucial , especially in healthcare ’ s challenging environments . Recognize that each achievement , no matter how minor it may seem , contributes to the overall progress and well-being of patients and staff . Taking the time to celebrate fosters a positive work environment , reduces burnout , and enhances team cohesion . It also reinforces the value of each team member ’ s contributions , promoting a sense of ownership and pride in their work .
Thank you for your commitment and dedication . Your efforts make a significant difference in the lives of those you serve . Keep striving for excellence and appreciate the journey as much as the destination . Together , we can create a healthier and safer healthcare system .
Buffy Lloyd-Krejci , DrPH , CIC , LTC-CIP , is a leading authority on infection prevention in the long-term care industry . Her firm , IPCWell , delivers in-person gap analysis , training , and support to nursing homes across the country .
References :
APIC LTC-CIP Certification Preparation Course https :// www . amazon . com / BROKEN-Pandemic-Uncovered-Nursing-Fighting / dp / 1544528361
july 2024 • www . healthcarehygienemagazine . com •
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