Transforming Care at the Bedside
UPMC was one of three health systems across the country chosen to participate in a pilot program to move health care operations, which have traditionally been provider-focused, into a more patient-focused environment. This program is part of an initiative with the Institute for Health Care Improvement and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.
UPMC Shadyside was chosen as the pilot UPMC facility for the project. Clinicians were asked to take a close look at the hospital’s daily operations and patient care processes to assess what could be modified or improved to create a friendlier and more effective patient care environment. The nursing unit on 3 East then tested new ideas and prototypes.
The program is focusing on streamlining communication between clinical staff and patients and their families. Every patient admitted to 3 East receives a “Questions About My Care” tablet. Patients and family members are encouraged to write any questions they may have on the tablet so that they are prepared when a care provider visits their room. In addition, care providers are asked to record patient activity on a “Daily Family Information Sheet,” which provides an up-to-date summary of the patient’s daily care, meals, toileting, and activity.
One of the most significant areas of development involved the Dietary Department. Patients on 3 East ordering meals now have the option to choose meals from a new menu of “comfort foods.” The focus of these dietary changes is to educate patients about healthier food choices, not to force them to eat in a certain way while hospitalized. In addition, the Dietary Department has expanded its hours so patients have more flexibility to choose when their meals are delivered. An evening snack program on 3 East also has been established with a hostess delivering a variety of snacks to patients.