Use of multimedia and simulation to promote safe skin protocols: Repositioning

     Pressure ulcer prevention has become a very important paradigm for the healthcare industry. Since 2008, when CMS no longer reimbursed hospital acquired pressure related injuries, Hospitals and Healthcare systems have tried to find ways to reduce the number of incidences within their walls. In 2015, several key proposals were developed within this 400+ bed Level I Trauma Center to address safe skin mandates for pressure ulcer reducing strategies. One such strategy was an educational initiative to demonstrate proper repositioning of patients. An innovative multimedia approach was created to deliver the message using a video format. The CWOCN consult services, with the help of the organization’s Clinical Simulation team, developed the clinical content for proper repositioning and created a fun and educational video. This medium used an early form of movie style: silent filmography. The content was presented without sound and in black & white.  The scene starts with the patient in an average hospital room and bed- having slid down into the “crease.” The RN arrives and offers to assist with repositioning. The screen fades to a title card narrating the interactions.  The return to action shows the RN encouraging the patient to turn and then placing pillows for comfort. All the time background music is played to an upbeat piano melody. The video ends after a few more title cards and scenes with the actors giving the “thumbs up” salute. This innovative educational approach developed by the CWOCN consult services and Clinical Simulation team to convey tried and true methods of positioning has been positively received. The video will be presented at all new hire orientations, skin and wound resource nurse program classes and as needed resource for unit managers.