Improving the assessment and documentation of patient mobility using a quality improvement framework.

OBJECTIVE

To implement a system for assessing and documenting patient mobility in an inpatient geriatric unit using a quality improvement framework.

METHODS

Whiteboards incorporating the Johns Hopkins Highest Level of Mobility scale were placed on each door of the unit. Staff were trained to assess and document patient mobility, and documentation compliance was measured. Nurses were surveyed to assess perceived burden of the system. Fall rates were calculated and analyzed for change from baseline.

RESULTS

Median daily documentation rates reached 79% by the end of the project. Surveys indicated a low perceived burden of the system. Fall rates did not increase when compared to the previous year baseline (p = 0.80) and the analogous time frames during the previous two years (p = 0.84).

CONCLUSION

A quality improvement framework may be used to improve mobility assessment and documentation in a geriatric unit without increasing patient falls or nursing burden.