Abstract: Using the ICERŠ Model to Improve Wound Measuring Technique in an Outpatient Setting (45th Annual Conference (June 22-26, 2013 ))

Lindsay Moll, RN, CWON, University of Colorado Health, Poudre Valley Hospital Wound Healing Clinic, RN, Fort Collins, CO and Janie Arndt, MS, RN, CWOCN, ACNS-BC, University of Colorado Health, CNS, Fort Collins, CO

Purpose: Wound measurements are used to guide treatment decisions, submit claims for billing, and analyze quality care. It is important that staff utilize consistent technique in measuring wounds so that the measurements are valid and provide inter-rater reliability.

In our outpatient clinic there was variability among staff in measuring technique. While the staff believed measurement techniques were consistent, it was evident from documentation that they were not. A change needed to be made to improve validity and inter-rater reliability. An RN in the clinic reviewed the literature to identify a best practice.

Methods:The ICER© model for achieving an Evidence Based Healthcare Culture (EBHC) was chosen to guide the project. ICER© endorses four essential steps for achieving an interdisciplinary EBHC. Obtaining pre-implementation data is essential in having a meaningful review process. To obtain this data an assessment was given to each RN prior to the change in practice. Results were compared and the problem quantified. Challenges associated with wound measurement were identified.

The literature was reviewed and a measurement process identified. In order to determine a best practice, the proposed technique was presented and discussed with staff. The process was refined. After finalization of the process the RN champion met individually with each member to discuss concerns and questions about the new wound measurement technique.

Results: Two months after implementation of the new technique, the staff was given the same assessment. It was found in the second assessment that the staff was more consistent in measurement technique. It is presumed that this will result in improved validity and inter-rater reliability of wound measurements. The ICER model was an effective guide for the implementation of change among a group of experienced practitioners. The result has been improvement of wound measurement technique in a clinic setting.

1552 Using the ICERŠ Model to Improve Wound Measuring Technique in an Outpatient Setting