Multimedia

Topic: Quality Insights QIN-QIO Updates 

In this week’s episode, Quality Insights’ Nursing Home Team gives updates as our contract extension as the QIN-QIO (Quality Innovation Network – Quality Improvement Organization) for Pennsylvania and West Virginia comes to an end on March 7.

• Watch Video Recording
• Download Transcript

Topic: Managing Common Infections in Nursing Homes

In this week’s episode, we discuss how to manage the most common infections in long-term care settings, including respiratory, gastrointestinal, skin, and urinary tract infections. We will also discuss when to implement isolation precautions, key infection control measures, and evidence-based strategies to minimize the spread of infections. 

We’re joined by Jennifer Brown, RN, BSN, CIC, Infection Preventionist and Quality Improvement Specialist at Quality Insights. 

• Watch Video Recording
• Download Presentation Slides
• Download Transcript

Topic: Ensuring Safe Water Management in Nursing Homes 

Water systems in nursing homes can harbor dangerous pathogens like Legionella and Pseudomonas, posing serious health risks to vulnerable residents. In today's webinar, we'll dive into waterborne threats and how facilities can strengthen infection prevention efforts to safeguard resident health.

We’re joined by Jennifer Brown, RN, BSN, CIC, Infection Preventionist and Quality Improvement Specialist at Quality Insights. 

• Watch Video Recording
• Download Presentation Slides
• Download Transcript

Topic: Back to Basics QAPI: Infection Control Microlearn Series - Episode 4: Sustainability 

In today's episode, we wrap up the “Back to Basics QAPI: Infection Control” microlearn series by listening to Episode 4, " Sustainability." Each microlearn in this four-part series demonstrates how to improve infection control in long-term care using the Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI). 

• View Webinar Recording
• Download Transcript

• View Back to Basics QAPI: Infection Control Microlearn Playlist

Topic: Back to Basics QAPI: Infection Control Microlearn Series - Episode 3: Intro to QAPI Data 

In today's episode, we'll continue the “Back to Basics QAPI: Infection Control” microlearn series by listening to Episode 3, " Intro to QAPI Data." Each microlearn in this four-part series demonstrates how to improve infection control in long-term care using the Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI). 

• View Webinar Recording
• Download Transcript

• View Back to Basics QAPI: Infection Control Microlearn Series - Episode 3: Intro to QAPI DataView

Topic: Back to Basics QAPI: Infection Control Microlearn Series - Episode 2: Turning Insights Into Action  

In today's episode, we'll continue the “Back to Basics QAPI: Infection Control” microlearn series by listening to Episode 2, "Turning Insights Into Action." Each microlearn in this four-part series demonstrates how to improve infection control in long-term care using the Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI). 

• View Webinar Recording
• Download Transcript

• View Back to Basics QAPI: Infection Control Microlearn Series - Episode 2: Turning Insights Into Action

Topic: Back to Basics QAPI: Infection Control Microlearn Series - Episode 1: Intro to QAPI 

Today's episode introduces Quality Insights' new “Back to Basics QAPI: Infection Control” microlearn series. Quality Insights’ Quality Improvement Specialist Patty Austin, RN, introduces the series, which consists of four 15-minute microlearn episodes demonstrating how to improve infection control in long-term care using the Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) method.

Following the introduction, we view Episode 1 of the microlearn series, “Intro to QAPI.” This is the Part 1 webinar in a four-part series.

• View Webinar Recording
• Download Transcript

• View Back to Basics QAPI: Infection Control Microlearn Series - Episode 1: Intro to QAPI

Topic: Commitment to Excellence: Introduction to the Nursing Home 5-Diamond Patient Safety Program 

Today’s episode introduces Quality Insights’ new Nursing Home 5-Diamond program – an automated, online, national educational resource for patient safety in nursing homes. The program is open for all facilities to enroll. This episode gives an overview of the program and demonstration of the learning platform.

• Watch Video Recording
• Download Transcript

• Visit Nursing Home 5-Diamond Patient Safety Program landing page
• Download informational flyer

Topic: New Year’s Resolution to Improve Your Infection Control and Immunization Efforts 

In today's episode, Quality Insights' team of healthcare experts answer our audience's questions related to infection control and immunization in long-term care. The team also shares their own New Year's resolutions to improve infection control and immunization efforts with our nursing home partners.

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• Mitigating Staff Shortages (CDC)
• Line Listing (CDC)
• Respiratory Virus Toolkit (CDC)
• COVID Infection Control Guidance (CDC)
• Interim Guidance for Managing Healthcare Personnel with COVID Infection or Exposure (CDC)
• COVID-19 Infection Control and Outbreak Response Toolkit for Long-Term Care (PA DOH)

Topic: PA Project Firstline Great Escape from Infections

This week’s episode introduces an interactive training experience teaching infection prevention and control.

Merewyn Sheeran of Pennsylvania Project Firstline discusses how a program using the escape room format provides a supportive and engaging environment for developing attendees’ knowledge. Viewers will learn how to use the escape room experience in their facility to enhance and improve the foundational knowledge of their frontline healthcare workers on infection prevention and control.

Merewyn Sheeran, BS, RN, CIC, LTC-CIP, is an Infection Preventionist with the Bureau of Epidemiology at the Pennsylvania Department of Health. She is part of the Division of Healthcare Associated Infection Prevention and a subject matter expert for PA Project Firstline. 

• Watch Video Recording
• Download Presentation Slides
• Download Transcript

Related Links: 

• Project Firstline Escape Room Flyer
• PA Project Firstline Resources

Topic: Insights in Long-Term Care Quality, Staffing, & More

In this week's episode, we listen to Dr. Jean Storm's interview with Nancy D. Zionts, MBA. They discuss important issues related to long-term care, including workforce challenges, lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare quality, and more.

Nancy D. Zionts is Chief Operating Officer and Chief Program Officer of the Jewish Healthcare Foundation. Jean Storm, DO, CMD, CHCQM, is Medical Director at Quality Insights. 

Related links:

• Visit the Taking Healthcare by Storm Homepage
• Download Transcript

Topic: Immunization and Infection Prevention Scenarios 

In this week’s episode, Quality Insights' Nursing Home Team will provide education on vaccine hesitancy, enhanced barrier precautions, long COVID, and infection control using role-play scenarios.

Related Links:

• Watch Video Recording
• Download Transcript

Topic: Nursing Home Insights From an NHA of the Year 

In this week's episode, we listen to Dr. Jean Storm's interview with Christina Starcher, NHA, QCP. They discuss improving quality of care for residents, staff retention, the role of the nursing home administrator, and more.

Christina Starcher is Senior Nursing Home Administrator at Cedar Ridge Center in West Virginia and was named Administrator of the Year by the West Virginia Health Care Association (WVHCA). Jean Storm, DO, CMD, CHCQM, is Medical Director at Quality Insights.

Related links: 

• Visit the Taking Healthcare by Storm Homepage
• Download Transcript

Topic: Post-COVID Care in Nursing Homes: What You Need to Know 

This week’s episode discusses post-COVID care for long-term care residents. The episode:

• Discusses what Post-COVID Syndrome is
• Reviews the prevalence of Post-COVID Syndrome and associated symptoms
• Discusses unique issues faced by the long-term care population regarding Post-COVID Syndrome
• Discusses prevention and treatment options
• Reviews case scenarios

We’re joined by Jean Storm, DO, CMD, CHCQM, Medical Director at Quality Insights.

• Watch Video Recording
• Download Presentation Slides
• Download Transcript

Topic: Staying Current: Key Updates for Immunizations and Healthcare Reporting 

In today's episode, we discuss the latest updates on immunizations and healthcare reporting. We explore essential updates tailored for nursing home professionals, including immunization guideline revisions; recent changes to the Minimum Data Set (MDS); and upcoming wNHSN reporting requirements related to respiratory infections.

We're joined by Jennifer Brown, RN, BSN, CIC, Infection Preventionist and Quality Improvement Specialist at Quality Insights; and Debra Wright, RN, BSN, CNDLCT, RAC-CT, Quality Improvement Specialist at Quality Insights.

• Watch Video Recording
• Download Presentation Slides
• Download Transcript

Topic: QIN-QIO 12th Scope of Work Update 

In today's episode, Quality Insights' nursing home team will look back at our work from the past five years and share what's on the horizon as the 12th Scope of Work (SOW) comes to an end. 

• Watch Video Recording
• Download Transcript

Topic: Journeying Toward the True North in Healthcare Quality: Person-Centered Care's Influence in LTC Facilities (Part 2)

Today’s episode discusses patient-centered care in long-term care, including principles of person-centered care, practical implications of person-centered care on patient outcomes, treatment strategies. We're joined by Jean Storm, DO, CMD, CHCQM, Medical Director at Quality Insights. This is Part 2 of a 2-part series.

• Watch Video Recording
• Download Presentation Slides
• Download Transcript

Topic: Journeying Toward the True North in Healthcare Quality: Person-Centered Care's Influence in LTC Facilities (Part 1) 

• Watch Video Recording
• Download Presentation Slides
• Download Transcript

Topic: Depression in Post-Acute and Long-Term Care 

This week’s episode discusses depression in long-term care, including the importance of preventing major depression in post-acute and long-term care (PALTC) populations. The presentation will:

• Describe the assessment process
• Share evidence-based pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions for treatment of major depression in PALTC populations
• Share two clinical cases to enhance the learning process

• Watch Video Recording
• Download Presentation Slides
• Download Transcript

• CJ Suicide Prevention Case
• Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia
• Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale
• Overcoming Anxiety, Depression, and Anger
• Stanley-Brown Safety Plan
• Suicide Prevention
• Download Presentation Slides

Topic: Antibiotic Awareness in Long-Term Care 

Today's episode discusses antibiotic stewardship and the upcoming Antibiotic Awareness Week 2024. The episode will give an overview of Antibiotic Awareness Week (AAW) themes and activities, as well as explain how healthcare facilities can get involved in AAW. 

We're joined by Emilee Melchior of West Virginia Project Firstline.

• Watch Video Recording
• Download Transcript

Related links: 

• US Antibiotic Awareness Week
• CDC: Be Antibiotics Aware Partner Toolkit
• Maximizing Efforts Dedicated to Antimicrobial Leadership and Stewardship (MEDALS) Program (for WV facilities)
• Healthcare-Associated Infection Prevention/Antimicrobial Stewardship (HAIP/AS) Program (for PA facilities)

Topic: Hand Hygiene: Healthy Hands for Healthcare Workers

This week’s episode discusses hand hygiene for healthcare workers. The discussion includes keeping your hands health; keeping your hands clean; and encouraging clean hands with your team. 

We're joined by Ericka Bolyard, MSN, RN, LTC-CIP, Regional Infection Preventionist for the West Virginia Department of Health Bureau of Public Health’s Office of Epidemiology and Preventive Services. 

Related links: 

• Watch Video Recording
• Download Presentation Slides
• “Execute: Mindfulness and Team Accountability with Hand Hygiene” (CDC Video)
• Clinical Safety: Hand Hygiene for Healthcare Workers
• Download Transcript

Topic: Resident & Family Engagement in Long-Term Care 

In this week's episode, we are introducing Quality Insights' "Taking Healthcare by Storm" podcast by listening to a discussion on resident and family engagement in long-term care.

In the "Taking Healthcare by Storm" podcast series, Quality Insights Medical Director Dr. Jean Storm sits down with industry experts with insights in the medical field, including long-term care. We will listen to Dr. Storm's interview with Haley Moore, NHA, and Jennifer Graley, RN, on resident and family engagement in their facility, Valley Center of South Charleston, West Virginia. Topics of discussion include resident councils, family involvement committees, and COVID outbreak management.

Related links:

• Visit the Taking Healthcare by Storm Homepage
• Download Transcript

Topic: Best Practices for the Respiratory Season (Rebroadcast) 

Today’s episode discusses strategies to protect residents and staff from influenza, RSV, and COVID-19. It also explores effective vaccination programs, infection control measures, outbreak management, and related topics to provide your team with the knowledge and tools needed to maintain a safe and healthy environment during the fall and winter respiratory season.

This episode is a replay session of our Aug. 28 webinar featuring Jennifer Brown, BSN, RN, CIC, Infection Preventionist and Quality Improvement Specialist at Quality Insights.

• Watch Recording
• Download Presentation Slides
• Download Transcript

Topic: Minimum Data Set (MDS) Changes Are Coming 

Updates to the Minimum Data Set (MDS) will go into effect on Oct. 1, 2024. In this week's episode, we will review the following revised data elements and/or new/revised guidance in Chapter 3, sections A, C, GG, H, I, K, N, O, and X. We're joined by Quality Insights Quality Improvement Specialist Debra Wright, RN, BSN, CNDLCT, RAC-CT. 

• Watch Recording
• Download Presentation Slides
• Download Transcript

Topic: Influenza and Source Control 

• Watch Recording
• Download Presentation Slides
• Download Transcript

Topic: Sepsis Awareness and Early Intervention: Essential Training for Nursing Homes 

• Watch Recording
• Download Tom Ahren’s Presentation Slides
• Download Kirsten Akin’s Presentation Slides
• Download Transcript
• Visit Viven Health Landing Page
• Download QR Code Flyer

Topic: Effective Dementia Care Techniques During a Respiratory Outbreak

Today’s webinar discusses caring for dementia residents during a respiratory outbreak. We're joined by Teepa Snow, MS, OTR/L, FAOTA. Snow is an occupational therapist; developer of the GEMS® States of Brain Change and the Positive Approach® training strategies; founder of Positive Approach to Care® (PAC); and co-founder of the Snow Approach Foundation, based in Hillsborough, North Carolina. 

• Watch Recording
• Download Transcript

Topic: End of Life Care: Multi-Dose Vials and Injection Safety 

This week's webinar discusses why injection safety matters for multi-dose vials, infection control actions for using multi-dose vials, and key takeaways. We’re joined by Ashley Belt, RN, BSN, Infection Preventionist at the West Virginia Department of Health.

• Watch Recording
• Download Presentation Slides
• Download Transcript
• How Do I Safely Use a Multi-Dose Vaccine Vial? (CDC Video)
• Multi-Dose Vaccine Vial Injection Safety Tips (CDC Video)

Topic: End of Life Care: Education for Nursing Homes on Sepsis Prevention and Enhanced Barrier Precautions 

Quality Insights has partnered with Viven Health to offer a new training modules on Sepsis Prevention and Enhanced Barrier Precautions (EBPs) that are free to our partners and beneficiaries in West Virginia and Pennsylvania.

In this episode, Natasha Dickinson joins us to demonstrate Viven Health's simulated learning modules. Natasha Dickinson, DNP, MPH, FNP-C, RN, is Director of Clinical Affairs at Viven Health.

• Watch Recording
• Download Presentation Slides
• Download Transcript
• Visit Viven Health Landing Page
• Download QR Code Flyer

Topic: End of Life Care: Palliative Care and More

This episode discusses palliative care vs. hospice care; hospice team/additional services; hospice program goals; insurance overview; diagnoses; levels of care; and where services occur. 

We're joined by Shelly Zito, RN, BSN, community liaison at Connections Life Care Hospice in Mount Carmel, Pennsylvania. 

• Watch Recording
• Download Presentation Slides
• Download Transcript

Topic: The Power of Education in Prevention: When Every Sip Counts

In today's episode, we discuss dialysis and fluid management for nursing home residents. This presentation includes an overview of the "Fluid Management: Every Drop Counts" education and activity workbook. 

We're joined by Patty Austin, RN, Quality Improvement Specialist for Quality Insights QIN-QIO; and Jeannette Shrift, MSN, RN, Quality Improvement Specialist for Quality Insights ESRD Network 4.

• Watch Recording
• Download Presentation Slides
• Download Transcript
• Download “Fluid Management: Every Drop Counts” Education and Activity Workbook
• More Resources

Topic: Enhanced Barrier Precautions (EBPs): Follow-Up

• Watch Recording
• Resource: Enhanced Barrier Precautions in Nursing Homes
• Download Transcript

Topic: Multidrug-Resistant Organisms (MDROs): An Overview 

Multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) are a major concern for the nursing home population, who are at risk for developing severe infections. In today's webinar, we'll discuss an overview of MDROs in relation to long-term care.

We're joined by Valerie Jividen, epidemiologist and lab-epi liaison for the West Virginia Department of Health Office of Epidemiology and Prevention Services. 

• Watch Recording
• Download Transcript
• Download MDRO Outbreak Toolkit
• Download Presentation Slides

Topic: Spotlight on Sepsis: Understanding The Vulnerability of Patients Receiving Dialysis 

This week’s episode discusses sepsis prevention for nursing home residents undergoing dialysis. The session will include an overview of practices aimed at reducing infection risks and will address strategies for identifying sepsis. Additionally, the webinar will cover infection prevention measures specific to dialysis treatments, with the goal of ensuring safer dialysis care in nursing home settings.

We're joined by Jennifer Brown, RN, BSN, CIC, Infection Preventionist at Quality Insights QIN-QIO; and Katelynn Booth, MSN, RN, CPHQ, Quality Improvement Specialist at Quality Insights ESRD Network 5.

• Watch Recording
• Download Transcript
• Download Presentation Slides

Topic: Sepsis in Long-Term Care: An Overview (Part 2) 

In today's episode, we will discuss sepsis in long-term care. This is Part 2 of a two-part series. Part 2 will review case scenarios of sepsis in the long-term care (LTC) setting, including addressing prevention, early detection, and treatment.

We're joined by Carolyn Pandolfo, BS, RN, CHES, CHC, PMP, CIC, travel infection preventionist for the Pennsylvania Project Firstline team at the Pennsylvania Department of Health.

• Watch Recording
• Download Transcript
• Download Presentation Slides

Join expert presenter Dr. Lauren Miller as she
dives into Medicare’s Annual Wellness Visit
(AWV). Learn about the goals of an AWV, the
barriers to completing, required components of
an AWV, explore the team-based approach to
AWVs and review the specialized billing codes
along with reimbursement.

• Watch Recording
• Download Transcript
• Download Presentation Slides

Topic: Sepsis in Long-Term Care: An Overview (Part 1) 

In today's episode, we will discuss sepsis in long-term care. This is Part 1 of a two-part series. Part 1 will provide an overview of sepsis in the long-term care (LTC) setting, including addressing prevention, early detection, and treatment.

We're joined by Emily Magee, MPH, CIC, infection prevention supervisor for Pennsylvania Project Firstline at the Pennsylvania Department of Health.

• Watch Recording
• Download Transcript
• Download Presentation Slides

Topic: Staffing Solutions Lessons Learned: Equipping and Empowering Staff for Success (Rebroadcast) 

Today’s episode discusses strategies for promoting nursing home staff stability, empowering nursing assistants, and improving infection prevention. This replay session of our May 2 webinar features expert presenters Jean Storm, Medical Director at Quality Insights; Jim Triana, Nursing Home Administrator at Complete Care at Oak Ridge; and Amy Porter, Resource Specialist at Quality Insights. The rebroadcast is followed by a Q&A with Amy Porter and Jean Storm.

The video recorded version of this webinar is eligible for Continuing Education credits for Nursing (1.25 hours) and NAB/NCERS (1.0 hours). To earn CEs, watch the full video recording linked below and complete the post-webinar evaluation.

• Watch Recording
• Download Transcript
• Download Presentation Slides

Topic: Navigating Opioid Use Disorder in Long-Term Care Facilities: Treatment, Screening, & Education (Part 2) 

In this week's episode, we discuss how to screen and treat residents with opioid use disorder (OUD) in nursing homes, as well as education related to OUD. This is Part 2 of a two-part series. Part 2 will review the following:

• List the medications used to treat opioid use disorder
• Describe successful processes involved in treating residents with opioid use disorder in the facility

We’re joined by Quality Insights Medical Director Jean Storm, DO, CMD, CHCQM.

• Watch Recording
• Download Transcript
• Download Presentation Slides

Topic: Navigating Opioid Use Disorder in Long-Term Care Facilities: Treatment, Screening, & Education (Part 1) 

In this week's episode, we discuss how to screen and treat residents with opioid use disorder (OUD) in nursing homes, as well as education related to OUD. This is Part 1 of a two-part series. Part 1 will review the following:

• Define opioid use disorder and explain the prevalence of the disorder in the older adult population
• Explain the risk factors for opioid use disorder and describe ways to reduce these risks
• Describe the various screening tools for opioid use disorder

We’re joined by Quality Insights Medical Director Jean Storm, DO, CMD, CHCQM.

• Watch Recording
• Download Transcript
• Download Presentation Slides
• Opioid Risk Assessment Tool

Topic: Q&A on Enhanced Barrier Precautions in Nursing Homes

In today’s episode, the healthcare experts at Quality Insights join us to discuss frequently asked questions related to enhanced barrier precautions (EBPs) in nursing homes, as well as answer submitted questions from our audience.

• Watch Recording
• Download Transcript

Resources shared during the presentation:

• Link to Presentation Slides
• Link to Download EBP Flow Chart
• CDC FAQ
• CDC Video (question about colostomies answered at 53-minute mark)
• Washington State DOH, EBP FAQ
• WV DOH EBP Info Sheet

Topic: Ventilation in Healthcare 

Today's episode will discuss the role of ventilation for preventing infections in nursing homes. We will review how ventilation works to reduce the amount of germs in the air and the importance of working with staff in charge of air handling and ventilation to improve ventilation. 

We're joined by Cindy Holmes and Elizabeth Dauch of West Virginia Project Firstline. If you have questions for Elizabeth Dauch, email Elizabeth.C.Dauch@wv.gov. Email Cindy Holmes at Cynthia.A.Holmes@wv.gov.

• Watch Recording
• Download Transcript
• Download Presentation Slides

 Related Resources:

• Video: What is Ventilation?
• Video: Why does Ventilation Matter?

Topic: Taking Control of Adverse Events  

This week’s episode discusses reduction of adverse events in nursing homes. The episode highlights the correlation between adverse events and hospital events, explores the term "adverse event," discusses the Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) process to reduce hospital events, and demonstrates the use of an adverse event tool.

• Watch Recording
• Download Transcript
• Download Presentation Slides

 Related Resources:

• CMS: Potentially Preventable Adverse Events
• Adverse Event QAPI Review: Hospital Events

Topic: Updates to Enhanced Barrier Precautions Guidance  

In today's episode, Dr. Jean Storm joins us to give an overview of enhanced barrier precautions (EBPs) and discuss the latest updates for EBP guidance. Dr. Storm is Medical Director at Quality Insights.

• Watch Recording
• Download Transcript
• Download Presentation Slides

 Related Resources:

• NEW! Enhanced Barrier Precautions in Nursing Homes Algorithm
• Examples of MDROs Targeted by CDC
• CDC Videos:
  • Enhanced Barrier Precautions in Nursing Homes (3:35 minutes)
  • Implementation and Use of Enhanced Barrier Precautions in Nursing Homes (59:10 minutes)
• CDC FAQs about EBPs in Nursing Homes

Topic: Increase Infection Prevention With Interactive Education (Rebroadcast With Live Q&A)  

Quality Insights has partnered with Viven Health to offer a new virtual learning platform that is free to our partners and beneficiaries in West Virginia and Pennsylvania. In this episode, Natasha Dickinson of Viven Health joins us to demonstrate their simulated learning modules that can be used as training for facility staff or as education for community members. Natasha Dickinson, DNP, MPH, FNP-C, RN, is Director of Clinical Affairs at Viven Health.

• Watch Recording
• Download Transcript
• Download Presentation Slides

 Related Resources:

• Visit Viven Health Webpage for Nursing Home Staff and Residents
• Visit Viven Health Webpage for Community Members in PA and WV
• Flyer for Nursing Home and Residents
• Flyer for Community Members in PA and WV

Topic: Candida Auris — Calm, Not Chaos 

In this episode, we will review C. auris' definition and background; review infection prevention and control guidance; describe the screening process; and more.

We're joined by Valerie Jividen, epidemiologist and lab-epi liaison for the West Virginia Department of Health Office of Epidemiology and Prevention Services. To contact Valerie Jividen, email Jividen, valerie.s.jividen@wv.gov.

• Watch Recording
• Download Transcript
• Download Presentation Slides

Topic: Critical Element Pathways Related to Infection Control 

In today's episode, we review the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Critical Element Pathways for Nursing Homes related to infection control. We discuss CMS' Survey Resources for Nursing Homes, a document used by surveyors to guide their evaluation of nursing homes' infection control programs, as well as evaluate compliance during recertification Survey.

• Watch Recording
• Download Transcript
• Download Presentation Slides

Topic: Age-Friendly Health Systems: 4Ms Care in Nursing Homes  

Today's episode is a discussion of the Age-Friendly Health Systems, an initiative by the John A. Hartford Foundation and the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI) to improve the care of older adults across healthcare settings. Amanda Meier of IHI will review the Age-Friendly Health Systems Action Community, the 4Ms framework, and how nursing home residents and staff can benefit from participation.

• Watch Recording
• Download Transcript
• Download Presentation Slides

Topic: Increase Infection Prevention With Interactive Education   

Quality Insights has partnered with Viven Health to offer a new virtual learning platform that is free to our partners and beneficiaries in West Virginia and Pennsylvania.

In this episode, Natasha Dickinson of Viven Health joins us to demonstrate their simulated learning modules that can be used as training for facility staff or as education for community members.

Natasha Dickinson, DNP, MPH, FNP-C, RN, is Director of Clinical Affairs at Viven Health.

• Watch Recording
• Download Transcript

 Related Resources:

• Visit Viven Health Webpage for Nursing Home Staff and Residents
• Visit Viven Health Webpage for Community Members in PA and WV
• Flyer for Nursing Home and Residents
• Flyer for Community Members in PA and WV

Environmental Cleaning & Disinfection (Part 2)  

One of the most important steps in preventing infections is through proper cleaning and disinfecting. In today's webinar, we will review contact time and how to read a disinfectant label.

We're joined by Cindy Holmes of West Virginia Project Firstline and the WV Department of Health Bureau of Public Health's Office of Epidemiology and Prevention Services.

• Watch Recording
• Download Transcript

 Related Resources:

• EVS Training – “EVS & Battle Against Infection: A Graphic Novel” (CDC)
• How to Read a Disinfectant Label (CDC)
• Project Firstline Videos
• Project Firstline Episode 22 – “Why does contact time matter?”
• Project Firstline homepage
• EPA – Registered Disinfectants – all disinfectants COVID -19 ListN

Overview of the QAPI Process in Long-Term Care 

In today's webinar, we're discussing the Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) process in long-term care. The discussion will review:

• The core elements of QAPI along with the associated F-tags
• The key role data has in QAPI success
• Who's responsible for QAPI plans and projects
• Key features of a QAPI plan

We're joined by Penny Imes, Quality Improvement Specialist at Quality Insights.

• Watch Recording
• Download Transcript
• Download Presentation Slides

Building Bridges: Fostering Engagement Between MDs and Facility Staff (Part 2)

In today’s episode, Quality Insights' Medical Director Dr. Jean Storm joins us to discuss the role of the medical director (MD) in nursing homes. The discussion will review: 

• Knowledge and tools needed to leverage the MD's role to enhance patient outcomes
• How to integrate medical director leadership to improve quality of care in nursing homes
• Responsibilities and roles of a nursing home MD beyond clinical care, including policy development, staff education, and quality improvement initiatives
• How MDs can shape facility care policies, ensuring alignment with regulatory standards and promoting a culture of continuous improvement

This episode is Part 2 of a two-part discussion. 

• Watch Recording
• Download Transcript
• Download Presentation Slides

Building Bridges: Fostering Engagement Between MDs and Facility Staff (Part 1)

In today’s episode, Quality Insights' Medical Director Dr. Jean Storm joins us to discuss the role of the medical director (MD) in nursing homes. The discussion will review: 

• Knowledge and tools needed to leverage the MD's role to enhance patient outcomes
• How to integrate medical director leadership to improve quality of care in nursing homes
• Responsibilities and roles of a nursing home MD beyond clinical care, including policy development, staff education, and quality improvement initiatives
• How MDs can shape facility care policies, ensuring alignment with regulatory standards and promoting a culture of continuous improvement

This episode is Part 1 of a two-part discussion. 

• Watch Recording
• Download Transcript
• Download Presentation Slides

One of the most important steps in preventing infections is through proper cleaning and disinfecting. In today's episode, we will review the difference between cleaning and disinfecting; why cleaning and disinfection matter; and contact time.

We’re joined by Cindy Holmes and Elizabeth Dauch of West Virginia Project Firstline.

• Watch Recording
• Download Transcript
• Download Presentation Slides

Related Links: 

• Project Firstline Website
• CDC: Reduce Risks from Surfaces Core Component
• Project Firstline Video: “Cleaning? Disinfection? What is the Difference?”

Introduction to Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate Services (CLAS): Fostering Inclusivity in Healthcare 

In today’s episode, special guest LaDawna Walker-Dean joins us to discuss Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate Services (CLAS) for partners and providers, with emphasis on cultural competence in healthcare. This episode reviews:

• Examples of Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate Services on an individual and organizational level
• The importance of cultural competence in healthcare
• The impact on population health when cultural competence is not observed

Walker-Dean is a highly experienced social worker and healthcare professional with expertise in addressing health disparities, having received several awards and recognition for her contributions to minority health. She is the founder of the West Virginia Minority Health Fairs.

• Watch Recording
• Download Transcript
• Download Presentation Slides

CEs Available: 1.25 contact hours of Continuing Education credits for nursing are available. To obtain CEs, watch the full webinar recording and complete the post-webinar evaluation and knowledge check. If you have questions about CEs for this course, email Andrea Lefkay.

• Complete the Post-Webinar Knowledge Check & Evaluation

Construction Infection Control Risk Assessment (ICRA) – History and Purpose 

In today’s episode, special guests Tom Bender and Michael Jenkins join us to discuss the history and purpose of Construction ICRA (Infection Control Risk Assessment).

This episode discusses:

• Importance of compliance and effects of noncompliance
• History of training development
• The changing ICRA landscape
• Individual responsibility and commitment to patient safety for all
• Moving forward and next steps to ensure ICRA awareness

Tom Bender is Education Outreach Director at Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters (EASRCC). Michael Jenkins is Senior Representative/ICRA Lead at EASRCC – West Virginia District.

• Watch Recording
• Download Transcript
• Download Presentation Slides

Staffing Solutions for Nursing Homes (Course Overview) 

Have hiring and retention woes created barriers to the quality of care provided at the nursing home you work in? Are you struggling to find solutions to improve staffing? You don’t have to navigate these challenges alone! Watch our overview webinar for a first look at a brand new course from Quality Insights that is set to launch in February 2024.

• Watch a video recording of this episode
• Download the presentation slides
• Download Transcript

Related Links

• Register for our course, “Staffing Solutions for Nursing Homes”
• Download course flyer

Strategies for Success: A Step-by-Step Guide to the Annual Infection Control Risk Assessment 

In today’s episode, Quality Insights Infection Preventionist Jennifer Brown joins us to discuss annual infection control risk assessments in long-term care, including the importance of the annual risk assessment; how to complete the assessment; and how facilities can use the information obtained in the assessment for its infection control plan.

• Watch Recording
• Download Transcript
• Download Presentation Slides

2023 in Review: Where We’ve Been & Where We’re Going (Rebroadcast)

In this week’s episode, Quality Insights’ Nursing Home Team will reflect on initiatives that we have collaborated on with nursing homes in 2023, plus look ahead at what’s on the horizon for 2024. Measures we will discuss include Immunizations; Care Coordination; Opioid Reduction & Misuse; Infection Control Training fwrom QSEP and Project Firstline; and Patient Safety.

This webinar was planned to be a rebroadcast of our Dec. 6 webinar. Due to technical difficulties, our rebroadcast was unable to play and our panelists redid their presentations. If you would like to watch the original Dec. 6 presentation, you can find the recording here.

Related links:

• Watch Recording
• Download Transcript
• Download Presentation Slides 

PPE Best Practices in Nursing Home Settings

In today's webinar, we review best practices for use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in nursing homes. Quality Insights infection preventionist Jennifer Brown joins us to review PPE needed depending on the level of precautions, including standard, contact, droplet, airborne, COVID-19, and enhanced barrier precautions. We also review guidance updates, education, and other resources related to PPE. 

• Watch Recording
• Download Transcript
• Download Presentation Slides

Anticoagulant Adverse Drug Events

Anticoagulants can lead to adverse drug events (ADEs) in long-term care facilities. In today’s episode, we discuss:

• Major types of anticoagulants and their basic differences
• Indications for starting anticoagulants
• What steps can be implemented to decrease the risk of adverse drug events associated with warfarin
• Differences in dosing protocols between apixaban and rivaroxaban

Related links:

• Watch Recording
• Download Transcript
• Download Presentation Slides
• Download “How to Manage My Blood Thinner”

2023 in Review: Where We’ve Been & Where We’re Going

In this week’s episode, Quality Insights’ Nursing Home Team reflects on initiatives that we have collaborated on with nursing homes in 2023, plus look ahead at what’s on the horizon for 2024.

Measures we discuss include Immunizations; Care Coordination; Opioid Reduction & Misuse; Infection Control Training from QSEP and Project Firstline; and Patient Safety. 

• Watch Recording
• Download Transcript
• Download Presentation Slides

Taking Another Look at Antipsychotics

In today's episode, we discuss antipsychotics in long-term care, including how antipsychotics work; side effects; prescribing and reduction; and federal guidance related to antipsychotic prescribing.

• Watch Recording
• Download Transcript
• Download Presentation Slides

Palliative Care: Immunization Updates for Long-Term Care (Rebroadcast) 

• Strategies for addressing common concerns and myths surrounding vaccination
• Strategies to increase vaccine acceptance among both residents and staff
• Principles of vaccine administration and safety

This episode is a rebroadcast of our Nov. 8 webinar.

• Watch Recording
• Download Transcript
• Download Presentation Slides

Palliative Care: Preventing Avoidable Hospitalizations

In this week's webinar, we discuss palliative care for preventing avoidable hospitalizations. The presentation discusses what palliative care is; the difference between palliative and hospice care; goals of care; barriers to communication; and language used at end of life. 

• Watch the Recording

• View the Transcript
• Download the Presentation Slides

Related Resources: 

• Palliative Care and Oranges (Video)
• Palliative Care and Oranges: A Story About Managing Illness (Flyer) 

This 60-minute course will provide education for partners/providers to understand the importance of blood glucose control and how it can prevent progression. Discussion will include Medical Nutrition Therapy and the important role it plays in disease prevention.
The information presented is appropriate for nurses, practitioners, dietitians, and other healthcare providers.

After completing this course, the learner will be able to:

• Explain the mechanism of how blood glucose control can prevent CKD progression.

• Identify the role of a Dietitian and how Medical Nutrition Therapy plays a role in halting CKD progression.

• Discuss the need for a Certified Renal Dietitian and kidney nutrition.

Expert Presenter

Jillian Pate, MS, RDN, CSR, LDN

Renal Dietician Nutritionist, Renal RD WV LLC

To receive continuing education credit, participants must:

• Watch the webinar

• Complete the evaluation

• Pass the post-knowledge check (80%)

• Watch the Recording

• View the Transcript

• Download presentation slides

Continuing Education

Nursing: This course is approved for 1.0 hours of Continuing Education for Nursing. Quality Insights is accredited as a provider of nursing continuing professional development by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation.
Dietitians: Course is pending CDR approval.

Immunization Updates for Long-Term Care

In today's episode, we discuss the latest information about the influenza, pneumococcal, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines.

The discussion also addresses strategies for addressing common concerns and myths surrounding vaccination; strategies to increase vaccine acceptance among both residents and staff; and principles of vaccine administration and safety. 

• Watch the Recording

• View the Transcript
• Download the Presentation Slides

Live Q&A for Long-Term Care Facilities

Quality Insights’ panel of health experts is back to answer questions for nursing homes. This week’s Q&A discussed the new “up to date” definition for COVID-19 vaccination; gradual dose reduction of antipsychotics; MDS reporting, and nursing home staffing. 

• Watch the Recording

• View the Transcript

Take Your Best Shot! Immunizations as Prevention

Immunizations are an important tool in reducing adverse events in long-term care. In today's episode, we will discuss how facilities can strengthen their immunization campaigns with the goal of reducing adverse events — as well as enhancing regulatory compliance.

• Watch the Recording

• View the Transcript

• Download presentation slides
• Quality Measure Tip Sheet: Influenza
• Quality Measure Tip Sheet: Pneumonia Vaccine
• Pneumococcal Vaccinations Algorithm

Topic: Urinary Tract Infections: Treat, Identify, Document

In today’s episode, we review ways to prevent, identify, and document UTIs. This discussion will include a review of Minimum Data Set (MDS) reporting requirements related to UTIs. 

• Watch the Recording

• View the Transcript

• 2023 NHSN Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Checklist

Topic: Treatment Considerations in Opioid Use Disorder

In today’s episode, Dr. Denise Vanacore reviews opioid use disorder (OUD) and the signs and symptoms of withdrawal. She also discusses the treatment of OUD, including maintenance treatment and tapering.

• Watch the Webinar Recording

• View the Transcript

Topic: Q&A on Updates for MDS, NHSN, and Immunizations

Quality Insights’ panel of health experts is back to answer questions for nursing homes. This week’s discussion answers FAQs related to reporting updates for the Minimum Data Set (MDS) and National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN), as well as updated recommendations for immunizations.

• Watch the Webinar Recording

• View the Transcript

Related Resources:

• LTCF Emergency Preparedness Plan Toolkit
• Emergency Prep and Dementia

The growing number of patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) continues to rise across the country, which means an increase in patients that reside in a Skilled Nursing Facility.

In this webinar, Katelynn Booth of ESRD Network 5 reviews essential insights into caring for patients with chronic kidney disease and their specialized needs, dietary considerations, medication management, and more. 

• Watch the Recording
• Download the Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript

• Dialysis/SNF Hand-Off Communication Report
• Kidney Care e-Learning Series
• ESA chart

Topic: Changing Seasons, Changing Conditions - Act Early and Often

Changing seasons leads to changing conditions. In today's webinar, we look at the rise of respiratory illness during the fall season – and the need to increase frequency of assessments. We will discuss how early identification and notification of physicians can prevent the need for hospital transfers.

• Watch the Webinar Recording

• Download the Presentation Slides

• View the Transcript

Topic: Gearing Up for Fall Immunizations

Is your facility ready for fall immunizations? Quality Insights Infection Preventionist Jennifer Brown reviews what nursing homes need to know about the upcoming season's immunizations and the latest guidance.

• Watch the Webinar Recording

• Download the Presentation Slides

• View the Transcript

Topic: An Educational Webinar on ONEbox and a
Naloxone Administration Demonstration

Join guest speaker Lilith McGhee from the West Virginia Drug Intervention Institute for a demonstration of ONEbox and how to administer Naloxone.

• Watch the Webinar Recording

• View the Transcript

Topic: Strategies for Rehospitalization Reduction

For this week's webinar, we discuss strategies to reduce rehospitalization. Topics covered include: 
• Why we should reduce hospitalizations
• Sepsis prevention and awareness
• Importance and education for advance care planning
• Prevention opportunities for falls
• Medication management red flags
We're joined by Dr. Jean Storm, Medical Director at Quality Insights.

• Watch the Webinar Recording

• Download the Presentation Slides

• View the Transcript

In today's episode, we discuss the upcoming changes to the Minimum Data Set (MDS) Sections N, O, P & Q. We're joined by presenter Debra Wright, a Quality Improvement Specialist at Quality Insights. Each Wednesday in August, we will cover different sections of the upcoming MDS changes.

• Watch the Webinar Recording

• Download the Presentation Slides

• View the Transcript

In today's episode, we discuss the upcoming changes to the Minimum Data Set (MDS) Sections J, K, L & M. We're joined by presenter Debra Wright, a Quality Improvement Specialist at Quality Insights. Each Wednesday in August, we will cover different sections of the upcoming MDS changes.

• Watch the Webinar Recording

• Download the Presentation Slides

• View the Transcript

In today's episode, we discuss the upcoming changes to the Minimum Data Set (MDS) Sections G, GG, H & I. We're joined by presenter Debra Wright, a Quality Improvement Specialist at Quality Insights. Each Wednesday in August, we will cover different sections of the upcoming MDS changes.

• Watch the Webinar Recording

• Download the Presentation Slides

• View the Transcript

Topic: Are You Ready for How the Minimum Data Set (MDS) 3.0 10/01/23 Changes Will Affect the Optional State Assessment (OSA) for Pennsylvania?

In this episode, we discuss the upcoming changes to the Minimum Data Set (MDS) 3.0 10/01/23 Changes Will Affect the Optional State Assessment (OSA) for Pennsylvania, a webinar featuring a recording of a presentation by Kerry Weaver from Myers and Stauffer and Ruth Ann Barnard from the Office of Long Term Living.

• Watch the Webinar Recording

• Download the Presentation

• View the Transcript

Topic: MDS Changes are Coming: Sections B, C, D, E & F

In today's episode, we discuss the upcoming changes to the Minimum Data Set (MDS) Sections B, C, D, E & F. We're joined by presenter Debra Wright, a Quality Improvement Specialist at Quality Insights. Each Wednesday in August, we will cover different sections of the upcoming MDS changes.

• Watch the Webinar Recording

• Download the Presentation Slides

• View the Transcript

Topic: MDS Changes are Coming: Section A

In today's episode, we discuss the upcoming changes to the Minimum Data Set (MDS) Section A. We're joined by presenter Debra Wright, a Quality Improvement Specialist at Quality Insights. Each Wednesday in August, we will cover different sections of the upcoming MDS changes.

• Watch the Webinar Recording

• Download the Presentation Slides

• View the Transcript

Topic: Schizophrenia Diagnosis & CMS Coding Audits

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has made changes in recent months related to schizophrenia diagnosis. These changes are reflected in the updated Minimum Data Set (MDS) section I6000, the State Operations Manual (SOM) Appendix PP, and the Critical Element Pathways. The changes also can affect nursing homes' ratings in the Five-Star Quality Rating System. 

In today's episode, we discuss the latest guidelines on schizophrenia diagnosis and the background behind these changes, as well as schizophrenia coding audits CMS is conducting in long-term care facilities. We're joined by guest presenter Tammy Coleman, RN, CNDLTC, RAC-CT. Coleman is Vice President of Clinical Reimbursement at Affinity Health Services.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript

Topic: Medication Adverse Events: Reducing the Risk

In today's webinar, we take a look at medications that create a risk for adverse events, including diabetic agents, psychotropic medications, antibiotics, and opioids. We also discuss processes designed to mitigate the risk of adverse events stemming from use of these high-risk medications.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• View the Transcript

Related links: 

• CMS, “Adverse Event Trigger Tool”
• CDC, “Adverse Drug Events in Adults”

Topic: Staffing Solutions for Nursing Homes (Course Overview)

Have hiring and retention woes created barriers to the quality of care provided at the nursing home you work in? Are you struggling to find solutions to improve staffing? You don’t have to navigate these challenges alone! Watch our overview webinar for a first look at a brand new course from Quality Insights that is set to launch August 2023.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download the Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript

Related links: 

• Register for our course, “Staffing Solutions for Nursing Homes”
• Download course flyer

For questions about the course or enrollment, contact Amy Porter at aporter@qualityinsights.org. 

Topic: Q&A for Long-Term Care Facilities  

Quality Insights’ panel of health experts is back to answer questions for nursing homes. This week’s discussion answers FAQs related to Post-COVID Syndrome and the end of the Public Health Emergency (PHE) plus other topics for long-term care facilities.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• View the Transcript

 Related links: 

• CDC COVID Data Tracker
• Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health in Nursing Facilities

Health care facilities are facing a number of guidance changes as the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) has come to an end. In today's webinar, Quality Insights Medical Director Dr. Jean Storm will break down the guidance changes affecting acute and continuing care facilities.

This webinar is Part 2 of a two-part series. Part 1 discussed guidance changes affecting long-term care facilities (LTCFs), home health, and hospice.

• Watch the Webinar Recording

• Download Presentation Slides

• View the Transcript

Continuing Education credits for nursing are available. For CEs, watch the full webinar recording and complete the post-webinar evaluation and knowledge check. If you have questions about CEs for this course, email Andrea Lefkay.

• Complete the Post-Webinar Knowledge Check & Evaluation

Featured Speaker
Landon Blankenship, Chief Nursing Officer at Southern West Virginia Hospice, presents the differences between Palliative and Hospice Care to provide the best care for patients.

The information presented is appropriate for nursing home administrators, nurses, human resources, and other health care providers of long-term care facilities.

Watch the Webinar

• Watch the Recording

• Download Presentation Slides

• View the Transcript

Continuing Education credits for nursing, physicians, and nursing home administrators are available. For CEs, watch the full webinar recording and complete the post-webinar evaluation and knowledge check. If you have questions about CEs for this course, email Andrea Lefkay.

• Complete the Post-Webinar Knowledge Check & Evaluation

Health care facilities are facing a number of guidance changes as the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) has come to an end. In today's webinar, Quality Insights Medical Director Dr. Jean Storm will break down the guidance changes affecting long-term care facilities (LTCFs), home health, and hospice.

This webinar is Part 1 of a two-part series. Part 2 will discuss guidance changes affecting acute and continuing care. 

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript

Continuing Education credits for nursing are available. For CEs, watch the full webinar recording and complete the post-webinar evaluation and knowledge check. If you have questions about CEs for this course, email Andrea Lefkay.

• Complete the Post-Webinar Knowledge Check & Evaluation

Topic: Post-COVID Syndrome in the Outpatient and Nursing Home Settings 

What is post-COVID syndrome, and how can you identify the symptoms and individuals at risk? In this webinar, Quality Insights Medical Director Dr. Jean Storm discusses what we know so far about post-COVID syndrome – also known as "long COVID" – in the outpatient and nursing home settings.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• View the Transcript
• Download the Presentation Slides

Topic: Live Q&A for Long-Term Care Facilities

Quality Insights’ panel of health experts is back to answer questions for nursing homes. This week’s discussion answers FAQs related to recent federal updates, plus other topics for long-term care facilities.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• View the Transcript

Related links: 

• LTCF COVID-19 Module
• HHS Entrance Conference Worksheet

On July 1, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) will implement new Federal Regulations for the State Survey Agencies of long-term care facilities. Is your facility ready?
 
In this 90-minute webinar, expert presenter Paula G. Sanders, JD, will discuss what Pennsylvania facilities can do to prepare for the changes. Sanders is a Principal and Chair of Post & Schell’s national health care practice.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript

Continuing Education credits for nursing are available. For CEs, watch the full webinar recording and complete the post-webinar evaluation and knowledge check. If you have questions about CEs for this course, email Andrea Lefkay.

• Complete the Post-Webinar Knowledge Check & Evaluation

Topic: Falls - Finding the Fix

One of the most effective ways to improve patient safety in nursing homes is reducing falls. How can this be done? In today's webinar, we'll discuss communication methods facilities can implement to reduce falls that lead to emergency room visits and hospitalizations.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• View the Transcript

Topic: Non-Pharmacological Pain Management

What are ways to manage pain in residents that aren't prescription drugs? In this week's episode, we discuss methods for assessing pain in residents and non-pharmacological interventions for managing pain.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript

Related links: 

• Download Pain Assessment in Advanced Dementia (PAINAD) Tool
• Download Pain in Long-Term Stay Patients

Topic: Q&A on Infection Control in Long-Term Care

Quality Insights Infection Preventionist Jennifer Brown joins us to answer questions about infection control and share new resources.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• View the Transcript

Related links: 

• Download the Vaccine Tracking Worksheet

Topic: Q&A on Guidance Updates and Other Topics for Nursing Homes 

Quality Insights’ panel of health experts is back to answer questions for nursing homes. This week’s discussion answers FAQs related to recent federal updates, plus other topics for long-term care facilities.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• View the Transcript

Related links: 

• FDA FAQs: What happens to EUAs when a public health emergency ends?
• QSO-23-15-CLIA
• FDA: EUAs for Antigen Tests
• PAHAN-694-05-11-UPD
• CDC: COVID-19 by County

Topic: Updates for Nursing Homes as PHE Comes to an End 

The COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) is set to expire at the end of the day Thursday, May 11. As a result, a number of regulatory waivers put in place by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) will end as well. In this webinar, we discuss changes that will affect long-term care facilities.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• View the Transcript

Related links: 

• CMS memo QSO-23-13-ALL
• CDC’s “Interim Infection Prevention and Control Recommendations for Healthcare Personnel During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic”
• Philadelphia Department of Public Health Advisory, “Updates to COVID-19 Vaccination and Masking Requirements for Healthcare Workers” (May 10, 2023)

Topic: Enhanced Barrier Precautions - An Overview (Rebroadcast)

One of the most effective interventions to prevent multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) in nursing homes are Enhanced Barrier Precautions (EBP). In today's webinar, we discuss an overview of EBP — including a history of MDROs; who's at risk for infection; the rationale for EBP; and guidelines for implementing EBP. 

We’re joined by Dr. Jean Storm, Medical Director at Quality Insights.

The presentation portion of this episode is a rebroadcast of a webinar that was recorded on April 19 and aired on April 21, 2023.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript

Topic: Q&A on Immunizations & All Topics

In this episode, our panel of health care experts returns to answer FAQs and questions from our audience about immunizations.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• View the Transcript

Related links:

• Download Quality Insights' Pneumococcal Vaccination Algorithm
• Visit CDC's PneumoRecs VaxAdvisor

Topic: Enhanced Barrier Precautions - An Overview

One of the most effective interventions to prevent multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) in nursing homes are Enhanced Barrier Precautions (EBP). In today's webinar, we discuss an overview of EBP — including a history of MDROs; who's at risk for infection; the rationale for EBP; and guidelines for implementing EBP. 

We’re joined by Dr. Jean Storm, Medical Director at Quality Insights.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript

What are the different types of Adverse Drug Events (ADEs) and how should you respond to them? In today's special 60-minute webinar, Quality Insights Medical Director Dr. Jean Storm will discuss how to respond appropriately to ADEs – as well as opportunities to reduce rates of ADEs – with a focus on outpatient settings, hospitals, and nursing homes.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript

Continuing Education credits for nursing are available. For CEs, watch the full webinar recording and complete the post-webinar evaluation and knowledge check. If you have questions about CEs for this course, email Andrea Lefkay.

• Complete the Post-Webinar Knowledge Check & Evaluation

Topic: Overview of Project Firstline Resources for Infection Control 

Project Firstline is the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's national training collaborative for health care infection control. In this episode, guest presenter Joni Price of West Virginia Project Firstline shares resources available from the state and national Project Firstline program, which promote foundational knowledge on infection prevention and infection control for all types of frontline health care workers.

Joni Price, RN, is education manager of WV Project Firstline for the WV Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR), Bureau for Public Health, Office of Epidemiology and Prevention Services. 

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• View the Transcript

Related Links:

• CDC’s Project Firstline website
• Infection Control Training Toolkits
• Facilitator Toolkit
• Multimedia Resources
• Print Resources
• Interactive Resources
• Training Events for WV Project Firstline

Topic: MDRO Infections: Colonized vs. Active (Rebroadcast with Live Q&A)

Multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) are a major concern for the nursing home population, who are at risk for developing severe infections.

In today’s episode, Quality Insights Medical Director Dr. Jean Storm will discuss: the difference between colonization and active infection, and how this distinction should guide antibiotic prescribing; clinical criteria that provide guidelines to determine what antibiotics are appropriate; and tools to guide assessment, aid communication, and determine best action.

This webinar is a rebroadcast of a March 15 presentation with a live Q&A for the March 29 webinar attendees.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript

Related Links:

• Choosing Wisely: Fifteen Things Physicians and Patients Should Question
• AHRQ's Suspected UTI SBAR toolkit

Topic: Q&A on All Topics for Long-Term Care Facilities

In this episode, our panel of health care experts returns to answer FAQs and questions from our audience about immunizations, infection control, National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) reporting, COVID-19 regulations, and more.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• View the Transcript

Related Links:

• NHSN Healthcare Personnel (HCP) Flu Vaccination
• NHSN Healthcare Personnel Safety (HPS) Component Training slides
• Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) QAPI Website
• CMS Nursing Home Guidance for Laws And Regulations

Expert presenter Dr. Daniel Doyle discusses chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the need and value of pulmonary rehabilitation and expanded access to spirometry in rural areas, and the need for care management for people with chronic lung diseases. Viewers can earn free nursing continuing education credits by watching this webinar (1.25 contact hours).

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download the Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript
• Complete the Evaluation

Nursing CEs available. 

Topic: Multidrug-Resistant Organism (MDRO) Infections: Colonized vs. Active

MDROs are a major concern for the nursing home population, who are at risk for developing severe infections.

In today’s episode, Quality Insights Medical Director Dr. Jean Storm will discuss: the difference between colonization and active infection, and how this distinction should guide antibiotic prescribing; clinical criteria that provide guidelines to determine what antibiotics are appropriate; and tools to guide assessment, aid communication, and determine best action.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript

Related Links:

• Choosing Wisely: Fifteen Things Physicians and Patients Should Question
• AHRQ's Suspected UTI SBAR toolkit

Topic: Review of CDC’s Project Firstline Website and Resources

Project Firstline is the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's national training collaborative for health care infection control.

In this webinar, guest presenter Jenny Bender of Pennsylvania Project Firstline shares resources available from the state and national Project Firstline program.

You can contact Pennsylvania Project Firstline at ra-dhfirstline@pa.gov 

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript

Related Links:

• CDC’s Project Firstline Website
• Pennsylvania Project Firstline Website
• Project Firstline Video, “Healthcare Risk Recognition in Action”
• Quality Insights Flyer: Project Firstline Videos and Resources

Topic: Sepsis from a Medical Perspective

Nursing home workers are the first line of defense in both preventing and identifying signs of sepsis in residents. In today's episode, we discuss early sepsis detection in skilled nursing facilities with Quality Insights Medical Director Dr. Jean Storm.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript

Topic: Sepsis from an Infection Preventionist Perspective

Nursing home workers are the first line of defense in both preventing and identifying signs of sepsis in residents. In today's episode, we discuss Sepsis From an Infection Preventionist Perspective with Quality Insights' infection preventionist, Jennifer Brown.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript

Topic: Q&A on All Topics for Long-Term Care Facilities

In this webinar, our panel of health care experts returns to answer FAQs and questions from our audience about reporting, guidelines, COVID regulations, and more.  

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• View the Transcript

Topic: Review of CMS and Public Health Emergency (PHE) Updates

In January, the White House announced it is planning to end the COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE) on May 11, 2023. In today's webinar, we discuss what this means for nursing homes. We also discuss the announcement from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) related to the end of the PHE.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• View the Transcript

Related Links: 

• CMS PHE fact sheet for LTCFs
• Other CMS PHE resources
• Pennsylvania Health Care Association, What to Consider with the End of the PHE
• QSO-23-05-NH

Topic: Bivalent COVID-19 Booster and Stroke Risk - Let's Take a Closer Look

In this week's webinar, we take a closer look at concerns that the bivalent vaccine has been linked to stroke risk.

Dr. Jean Storm, Medical Director at Quality Insights, discusses the origins of this concern, what the latest data show, and other recent findings related to the bivalent vaccine and newest COVID-19 variants. 

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• View the Transcript
• Download the Presentation Slides

Quality Insights medical director Dr. Jean Storm presents on appropriate opioid prescribing in four different health care environments: Outpatient, Inpatient, Long-Term Care, and Hospice.

The information presented is appropriate for physicians, nurses, and other health care providers.

• Watch the Recording
• Download the Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript

• Complete the Evaluation

Topic: Updates on Immunizations: Flu, COVID, & Pneumo
What's the latest guidance on immunizations? In today's episode, we'll discuss flu, COVID, and pneumococcal vaccinations, as well as Minimum Data Set (MDS) coding on immunizations.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• View the Transcript

Related links: 

• View webinar video recording
• Download “Pneumococcal Vaccination Decision Tree”
• Download “Boost Your Rates Protocol”
• Download “Get the Shot, Not the Flu”
• CDC, “Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Facility Toolkit: Influenza Vaccination Among HCP” 
• CDC, “Operational Guidance for SNFs to Report Annual Influenza Vaccination Data…”
• NHSN Manual, “Healthcare Personnel Vaccination Module: Influenza Vaccination Summary”
• CDC, “Pneumococcal Vaccine Timing for Adults”

Topic: Everything COVID-19 - Your Questions Answered
COVID-19 is a part of our daily lives now – but that doesn’t mean we no longer have challenges. In this webinar, our health care experts discuss frequently-asked-questions about challenges nursing homes are facing — such as keeping staff and residents up to date on vaccines, best practices for therapeutics, and NHSN reporting.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• View the Transcript

Related links: 

• 2022 – PAHAN – 663 – 10-04-UPD UPDATE: Interim Infection Prevention and Control
• Recommendations for Healthcare Settings during the COVID-19 Pandemic: 
• Interim Infection Prevention and Control Recommendations for Healthcare Personnel During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic
• Return to Work Criteria for HCP with SARS-CoV-2 Infection

Expert presenter Dr. Cindy Pinson discusses Medicare’s Annual Wellness Visit (AWV). Specifically, attendees will learn about the scope of the AWV, who is eligible, what should be covered, assessments, as well as implementation in a nursing home setting. Learning objectives include: Identifying Annual Wellness Visit (AWV) components; Stating who can conduct an AWV; and Describing AWV assessments for nursing home residents.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download the Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript
• Complete the Evaluation

Physician and Nursing CEs available. 

Topic: White House’s Winter Playbook for Nursing Homes
Last month, the White House released its COVID-⁠19 Winter Preparedness Plan, including its Winter Playbook for Nursing Homes. In this webinar, we'll discuss how this guidance affects nursing homes.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• View the Transcript

Related links: 

• White House Winter Preparedness Plan Announcement
• White House Winter Playbook for Nursing Homes

Topic: COVID-19 Antivirals and Treatment Updates
What are best practices and the latest updates for utilizing COVID-19 therapeutics? In today's episode, Dr. Krista Capehart of West Virginia University School of Pharmacy joins us to discuss the life-saving treatments available for people who become infected with COVID-19.

Dr. Capehart, PharmD, BCACP, is professor and Director of the Wigner Institute for Advanced Pharmacy Practice, Education, and Research. If you want to contact Dr. Capehart, email krista.d.capehart@wv.gov.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript

Topic: NHSN - Back to the Basics
Are you new user or need a refresher on navigating the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN)? In today's episode, we’re getting back to the basics of NSHN. We discuss how to enroll users, update emails, and review the basic templates for skilled nursing facility (SNF) weekly data submissions.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• View Resource Links
• View the Transcript

Topic: Appropriate Use of PPE Under Current Guidelines
What are the latest guidelines for personal protective equipment (PPE) in nursing homes? In this webinar, we give an overview of standard and transmission-based precautions. We also discuss COVID-19 prevention and therapeutics, as well as a brief introduction of Project Firstline. 

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download the Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript
• Project Firstline, “Choosing the Right PPE for COVID-19”

Participants hear from organizations who share best practices for mitigating understaffing barriers. Learning objectives include: identifying best practices to mitigate understaffing; demonstrating increased understanding of strategies for staffing recruitment or retention; and discussing ways to implement best practices at an organization.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download the Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript
• Complete the Evaluation

Topic: Bivalent Booster Timing & Approach to Vaccines Following Respiratory Illness
When is someone eligible for the bivalent COVID-19 booster? What if they’re immunocompromised or recently had COVID-19? In this webinar, we discuss vaccine timing with Quality Insights’ infection preventionist Jennifer Brown. 

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download the Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript

Topic: Best Care in the Best Setting: Reducing 30-Day Readmissions and Avoidable Emergency Department Trips (Part 2)
Preparation is key to reducing 30-day readmission rates and decreasing avoidable trips to the emergency department (ED). How do you get started? In today's episode, we discuss preparations your facility can make to lay the groundwork for success. 

This is Part 2 of a two-part discussion on reducing 30-day readmissions and avoidable ED trips. 

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download the Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript

Topic: Best Care in the Best Setting: Reducing 30-Day Readmissions and Avoidable Emergency Department Trips (Part 1)
Your facility wants to reduce 30-day readmission rates and decrease avoidable trips to the emergency department (ED). How do you get started? In this webinar, we discuss preparations your facility can make to lay the groundwork for success.

This is Part 1 of a two-part discussion on reducing 30-day readmissions and avoidable ED trips. 

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download the Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript

Topic: Updates to COVID-19 Guidance (Rebroadcast)
What’s the latest COVID-19 guidance that nursing home workers need to know? In today’s webinar, we discuss recent updates on testing, quarantining, and more with Quality Insights Infection Preventionist Jennifer Brown.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download the Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript

Topic: Phase 3 Updates for Training and Services; Regulatory Updates for TNAs

Nursing homes have faced a number of guidance updates in recent months. In today's episode, we discuss the guidelines for temporary nurse aides (TNAs), as well as Phase 3 updates for Training and Services.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download slides for RoP Phase 3 - Services Review
• Download slides for RoP Phase 3 - Training Review: 

Related links: 

• Nov. 3 Letter on TNAs 
• Login Instructions for Temporary Nurse (Credentia) 
• Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Candidate Handbook (Credentia) 
• Survey Resources (Downloads)

Topic: Federal Tag Updates: Opioid and Substance Use Disorder

Guidelines have changed for long-term care facilities with the recent update of State Operations Manual (SOM) Appendix PP.

Pam Meador of the West Virginia Health Care Association joins us discuss some of those Federal Tag changes relating to opioids and substance use disorder. 

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download Presentation Slides

Topic: Staffing Solutions for Nursing Homes - Course Overview
Have hiring and retention woes created barriers to the quality of work in your nursing home? You don't have to navigate these challenges alone.  Quality Insights will soon be offering a course, "Staffing Solutions for Nursing Homes."

In this webinar, resource specialist Amy Porter discusses the current state of nursing home staffing, details about the course (including benefits, continuing education credits, and timeline), and steps you can take to enroll. 

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript
• Register for Course: "Staffing Solutions for Nursing Homes"

For questions about the course, contact Amy Porter at aporter@qualityinsights.org. 

Topic: CMS’ Guidelines for Nursing Home Emergency Preparedness Plans
Does your nursing home have an Emergency Preparedness Plan – and does it meet the guidelines set forth by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)?

In this discussion, we review what nursing homes need to know about CMS' standards.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• View the Transcript

This webinar included a preview of the following resources developed by Quality Insights to help assess your facility's plan:

• Download Quality Insights’ “Long-Term Care Facility Emergency Preparedness Plan: Outline”
• Download Quality Insights’ “Long-Term Care Facility Emergency Preparedness Plan: Check List”

Topic: Updates to COVID-19 Guidance
What’s the latest COVID-19 guidance that nursing home workers need to know? In today’s webinar, we discuss recent updates on testing, quarantining, and more with Quality Insights Infection Preventionist Jennifer Brown.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download the Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript

Participants learn about COVID-19 hospital readmissions and how to decrease the rate of COVID-19 readmissions. Discussion points include: numbers of readmissions nationwide as well as West Virginia and Pennsylvania; causes or risks for readmissions; contributing factors for readmissions; Joint Commission study that examines readmissions after a diagnosis of COVID-19; and best practices to decrease number of readmissions.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download the Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript
• Complete the Evaluation

Topic: CMS’ Critical Element Pathways for Infection Prevention 

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) will soon be revising its Critical Element Pathways, including its pathways for infection prevention. In this episode, we give an overview CMS' Critical Element Pathways for infection prevention, and also discuss how to utilize these pathways to prevent facility-acquired infections — resulting in reduced hospitalizations and emergency department (ED) visits.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download the Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript

Topic: Enhanced Barrier Precautions (EBP): An Overview

One of the most effective interventions to prevent multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) in nursing homes are Enhanced Barrier Precautions (EBP). In today's episode, we discuss an overview of EBP — including a history of MDROs; who's at risk for infection; the rationale for EBP; and guidelines for implementing EBP. 

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download the Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript

Related links: 

• Enhanced Barrier Precautions (EBP) Safety Audit
• Enhanced Barrier Precautions (EBP) Resident Evaluation Tool

Topic: NHSN's Updated Definitions for COVID-19 Vaccine Reporting for Residents and Health Care Personnel

The National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) has recently revised its definition of "up to date" on COVID-19 vaccinations. In this episode, we review the new definition as well as other recent changes to NHSN's person-level or event-level vaccination forms.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• View the Transcript

Related links: 

• COVID-19 Vaccination Modules: Key Terms (NHSN)
• COVID-19 Module - Long Term Care Facility (NHSN): Resident Impact and Facility Capacity Pathway (NHSN form)
• COVID-19 Module - Long Term Care Facility: Staff and Personnel Impact (NHSN form)
• Instructions for Completion of the COVID-19 Long-term Care Facility (LTCF) Resident Impact and Facility Capacity Pathway Form (NHSN)
• Instructions for Completion of the COVID-19 Long-term Care Facility (LTCF) Staff and Personnel Impact Form (NHSN)
• 5-Step Enrollment for Long-term Care Facilities (CDC)

Participants are given an overview of chronic kidney disease (CKD), including how to identify patients at risk of developing CKD; testing used to diagnose CKD; the five stages of CKD; and prevention, treatment and slowing down the progression of CKD.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download the Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript
• Complete the Evaluation

Topic: Using SBAR Communication in Infection Control

The SBAR communication technique — which stands for Situation, Background, Assessment, and Recommendation — is the gold standard for sharing information in medical settings. So what does SBAR look like in action and how can it be used to improve health outcomes?

In today's episode, we discuss and demonstrate how SBAR can be used for infection control in long-term care facilities.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• View the Transcript

Related links: 

• Quality Insights SBAR Overview Flyer
• AHRQ SBAR Toolkit for Suspected UTIs

The Quality Insights QIN-QIO Nursing Home Team held a relaunch event to kick off its new health care initiatives for nursing homes.

In this event, the team gave an overview of those health care initiatives set forth by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services - and how our QIN-QIO can help nursing homes in Pennsylvania and West Virginia achieve those goals. 

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download the Presentation Slides
• Start Working with Quality Insights

Topic: Successful Strategies to Improve Staff Influenza Vaccination Rates

People who work in long-term care know that staff vaccinations are key to stopping the spread of viruses like influenza. But how do you increase vaccination rates in your facility?

Fellowship Community infection preventionist Audrey Fernald joins us to share how her facility successfully increased staff vaccination rates.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download the Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript

Topic: Software Solutions for Skilled Nursing Facilities

How can technology help skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) enhance quality of care and improve resident outcomes? In today's episode, Chris Gerace Johnson of Real Time Medical Systems joins us to discuss how their software solution — which is free for SNFs — can automate infection control surveillance, identify gaps in documentation, and more.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• View the Transcript

Topic: Staff Health Reporting and Vaccine Hesitancy

Moving into the fall months, long-term care facilities must prepare for an increase in COVID-19 and flu cases. What can your facility do to keep staff and residents healthy?

In this episode, we discuss the importance of reporting symptoms and getting influenza and COVID-19 vaccines — and how to support members in your health care team who may have vaccine hesitancy.

• Watch the Webinar Recording

Related links: 

• CDC: Stay Home When Sick
• CDC: Quarantine Isolation by Contingency
• CDC: Addressing Vaccine Misinformation
• Johns Hopkins Medicine: COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy: 12 Things You Need to Know
• CDC: Talking with Patients about COVID-19 Vaccination
• Joint Commission: Influenza and Influenza Vaccine Myths and Reality

Topic: CMS's Five-Star Quality Rating System - 2022 Staffing Measure Update

In July, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) updated the staffing rating methodology for its Five-Star Quality Rating System for Nursing Homes. Guest speaker Pam Meador of the West Virginia Health Care Association discusses the changes and what facilities can do to improve their scores. 

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download the Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript

Participants learn a quick overview of the 2022 Quality Payment Program (QPP) and some key changes this year.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download the Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript
• Complete the Evaluation

The Quality Insights QIN-QIO (Quality Innovation Network-Quality Improvement Organization) held a relaunch event to kick off its new health care initiatives, set forth by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

Program director Shikina Wills and team leaders Sheila Barnett and Penny Imes give an overview of our program and how our team can help health communities in West Virginia and Pennsylvania achieve the new initiatives.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download the Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript
• Start Working with Quality Insights

Topic: Using QAPI in Nursing Homes Part 3 - Plan, Do, Study, Act (PDSA)

In a three-part webinar series, we discuss the Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) process. In this final discussion, we explain how to use the PDSA method (Plan, Do, Study, Act) to take corrective act. 

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Watch Animated Video, "Improving COVID-19 Booster Rates Using the QAPI Process: Part 3 - Plan, Do, Study, Act"

Topic: Using QAPI in Nursing Homes Part 2 - Root Cause Analysis (RCA)

In a three-part webinar series, we discuss the Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) process. In this second discussion, we focus on using Root Cause Analysis. 

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Watch Animated Video, "Improving COVID-19 Booster Rates Using the QAPI Process: Part 2 - Root Cause Analysis (RCA)"

Topic: Using QAPI in Nursing Homes Part 1 - Brainstorming

In a three-part webinar series, we discuss the Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) process. In this first discussion, we focus on the brainstorming stage. 

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Watch Animated Video, "Improving COVID-19 Booster Rates Using the QAPI Process: Part 1 - Brainstorming"

Participants learn about where we are with COVID-19 variants, the current state of vaccines, and available antivirals.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download the Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript
• Complete the Evaluation

Topic: NHSN Updated Pathway Data Reporting

In recent weeks, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has announced updates to Phase 2 and 3 of the Federal Rule. We highlight and clarify the upcoming changes in today’s episode, as well as share information on training for the updates.

• Watch the Webinar Recording

Links to resources mentioned in this episode:

• CMS QSO-22-19-NH

Topic: NHSN Updated Pathway Data Reporting

In recent months, the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) updated its pathway data reporting for long-term care facilities. In today's episode, we review the changes along with some example scenarios.

• Watch the Webinar Recording

Links to resources mentioned in this episode:

• CDC COVID-19 Vaccination Schedules
• Table of instructions for Resident Impact and Facility Capacity Pathway FormNHSN’s COVID-19 Vaccination Modules

Topic: NHSN’s Updated Definitions for COVID-19 Vaccine Reporting

What does it mean to be "up to date" on COVID-19 vaccines? The National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) recently revised its definition to align with recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In today's episode, we discuss the new definition along with scenario examples.

• Watch the Webinar Recording

Links to resources mentioned in this episode:

• NHSN’s COVID-19 Vaccination Modules

Topic: Tuberculosis in Long-Term Care

Tuberculosis hides in plain sight. The risk of TB infection is even higher for people who live or work in nursing homes. In this week's episode, we discuss what health care workers should know about TB and how to prevent infections.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download Presentation Slides

Links to resources mentioned in this episode:

• CDC Train Module 12B - Tuberculosis Prevention
• Pennsylvania Department of Health Tuberculosis Program
• West Virginia Department of Health Tuberculosis Website
• CDC Annual Risk Assessment on Tuberculosis
• CDC Appendix B Tuberculosis Risk Assessment

Participants will learn more about using immunization as a key strategy in the fight against pneumonia. Discussion points include common causes of pneumonia; risk factors associated with pneumonia; complications of pneumonia; prevention strategies related to pneumonia; and case studies involving immunization as it pertains to pneumonia.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download the Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript
• Complete the Evaluation

Topic: What are PCV15 and PCV20? The latest guidance on pneumococcal vaccinations

Are your residents up-to-date with their pneumococcal vaccinations? Should they receive PCV13, PCV15, PCV20, or PPSV23 — and when?

In today's episode, we'll break down the latest guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCVs) and pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccines (PPSVs). 

• Watch the webinar recording.

Links to resources mentioned in this episode:

• Pneumococcal Vaccine Decision Tree by Quality Insights
• CDC’s Pneumococcal Vaccine Timing for Adults

Topic: Nursing Home Guidance Updates – Boosters, TNAs, and PA DOH Therapeutics Form

Guidance updates affecting nursing homes have rolled out in recent weeks from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and Pennsylvania Department of Health (PA DOH).

In this week's episode, we'll get up to speed on the latest guidance on COVID-19 boosters, temporary nurse aides (TNAs), and PA DOH's therapeutics form. 

• Watch the webinar recording.

Links to resources mentioned in this episode:

• Credentia
• PA Department of Education (search “Temporary Nurse Aide)
• Updates guidance on 2nd COVID-19 Booster shots
• COVID-19 Outpatient Therapeutics for LTCFs in PA

Topic: Long-Haul COVID-19 in Nursing Homes - Part 3

In this webinar, we discuss quality measures that should be evaluated to prevent further pain in people suffering from Long COVID. This is the final discussion in a three-part series about Long-Haul COVID in nursing homes.

• Watch the webinar recording.

Topic: Long-Haul COVID-19 in Nursing Homes - Part 2

In this webinar, we discuss quality measures that should be adopted or strengthened to prevent further injury for people suffering from Long COVID. This is the second part of a three-part series about Long-Haul COVID in nursing homes.

• Watch the webinar recording.

Topic: Long-Haul COVID-19 in Nursing Homes - Part 1

In this webinar, we discuss an overview of Long-Haul COVID. This is the first part of a three-part series about Long-Haul COVID in nursing homes.

• Watch the webinar recording

Links to resources mentioned in this episode: 

• CDC Interim Guidance on Evaluating and Caring for Patients with Post-COVID Conditions
• RECOVER: Researching COVID to Enhance Recovery

Topic: CMS Emergency Preparedness Requirements for Nursing Homes

From power outages to tornados, disaster can strike at any time. What plans do nursing homes need to have in place for worst-case scenarios?

In this webinar, we discuss the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services' emergency preparedness requirements for nursing homes with Debra Wright, Quality Improvement Specialist at Quality Insights.

• Watch the webinar recording

Links to resources mentioned in this episode: 

• CMS QSO-21-15
• Pathway Health Emergency Preparedness Toolkit
• CMS Provider Enrollment and Certification Guidance (Sections F838 and F689)
• CMS Emergency Preparedness Checklist
• ASPR Tracie: CMS and Disasters
• QSEP Training Catalog

Almost half of the adult population in the United States has high blood pressure, and many don’t even know they have it. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), high blood pressure is one of the most common reasons for physician office visits as well as the use of prescription medication. This webinar provides an opportunity to examine the health care provider role in helping patients manage hypertension.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download the Presentation Slides
• View the Transcript
• Complete the Evaluation and Reflective Questions

Topic: The Engine that Drives the CMS Five-Star Rating System

In recent years, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has rolled out a Five-Star Quality Rating System aiming to help consumers, families, and caregivers compare nursing homes.

These ratings and the data behind the ratings can be found on CMS's Nursing Home Care Compare website.

We discuss the engine behind the rating system with Pam Meador, Director of Regulatory Services with the West Virginia Healthcare Association.

• Watch the webinar recording
• Download the Presentation Slides

Topic: CMS Update on Nurse Aide Training Requirements

Last month, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid announced it will phase out a series of regulation waivers put in place at the beginning of the pandemic (QSO-22-15).

This includes a waiver regarding the training and certification of nurse aides at Nursing Facilities and Skilled Nursing Facilities.

How will this affect nursing homes? We discuss the changes with Penny Imes, a quality improvement specialist at Quality Insights.

• Watch the webinar recording.

Guest speaker Deborah Steinberg, J.D., talks about Medicare coverage for substance use disorder (SUD) treatment. Specifically, she addresses: Medicare’s current coverage of SUD treatment; Medicare’s coverage gaps for SUD treatment - including services, providers, settings, and anti-discrimination protections; and policy proposals to address these coverage gaps and our progress to date to improve Medicare’s coverage for SUD care.

• Watch the Webinar Recording
• Download the Presentation Slides
• Download the Recording Transcript

Topic: Boosting Boosters in Nursing Homes

Quality Insights' Shirley Sullivan discusses who is eligible to get a COVID-19 booster, and what is considered "up-to-date" on COVID-19 vaccines.

• Watch the webinar recording.

Topic: Communicating COVID-19 Vaccination Status between Care Settings

Quality Insights' Patty Austin discusses best practices for communicating COVID-19 vaccine status between care settings.

• Watch the webinar recording.

Topic: COVID-19 Vaccine Myth-Busters

Quality Insights' Natalie Tappe discusses common myths and misunderstandings about the COVID-19 vaccine and booster.

• Watch the webinar recording.

Topic: Updates to COVID-19 Guidelines for Nursing Home Visitation and Testing

Quality Insights' Penny Imes discusses recent updates to guidelines issued by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) regarding nursing home visitation and testing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Watch the webinar recording.

Topic: COVID-19 Vaccinations and Chronic Kidney Disease

In this webinar, we discuss the unique concerns people with chronic kidney disease (CKD) face amid the COVID-19 pandemic. We are joined by Katelynn Booth, Quality Improvement Specialist with Quality Insights Renal Network 5.

• Watch the webinar recording.

Topic: Understanding the "ICs" - Epidemic, Pandemic and Endemic

What is the difference between an outbreak, an epidemic, a pandemic, and an endemic? What can nursing homes do to plan ahead if COVID-19 is reclassified as an endemic? Patty Austin from Quality Insights joins us to tackle this topic.

• Watch the webinar recording.

Topic: Infection Control Assessment and Response (ICAR)

Penny Imes, a Quality Improvement Specialist with Quality Insights, joins us to talk about the Infection Control Assessment and Response (ICAR) tool as it relates to long term care and skilled nursing facilities amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Watch the webinar recording.

Topic: Updates to Cohorting Guidelines in Long Term Care

Pam Meador from the West Virginia Health Care Association joins us to talk about the most recent updates to cohorting guidelines for long term care facilities.

• Watch the webinar recording.

Topic: Tracking Immunization Status Among Nursing Home Residents

Patty Austin from Quality Insights talks about tracking the vaccination/immunization status of nursing home residents amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Watch the webinar recording.

Topic: NHSN COVID-19 Vaccine Data Entry

Penny Imes from Quality Insights talks about COVID-19 Vaccine Data Entry for long-term care facilities in the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN).

• Watch the webinar recording.

Topic: Cohorting in Long-Term Care

Pam Meador from the West Virginia Healthcare Association discusses cohorting as an infection prevention and control strategy in long-term care and skilled nursing facilities amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Watch the webinar recording.

Guest speakers Sandra Ellis, RN and Susan Lucot, MSN, RN talk about the West Virginia Society for Healthcare Risk Management. Topics included: Purpose of Society; Membership Eligibility and Types of Membership; Membership Application and Renewal Process; Board and Officer Composition and Committees; and Benefits of Membership.

• Watch the Webinar Recording