PROJECT ECHO FOR NURSING HOMES: A PATIENT-CENTERED, RCT TO IMPLEMENT INFECTION CONTROL BEST PRACTICES IN NHS. (20th December 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Heilbrunn, Emily; Calo, William; Francis, Erica; Kong, Lan; Hogentogler, Ellie; Fisher, Abbey; Hood, Nancy; Kraschnewski, Jennifer
• Is Part Of: Innovation in aging. Volume 6(2022)Supplement 1
• Page Start: 232
• Page End: 232
• Publication Date: 2022-12-20
• Subjects: Aging -- Periodicals; Gerontology -- Periodicals; 612.67
• DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igac059.920
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2399-5300

Abstract

Abstract: Nursing homes (NHs) have been devastated by COVID-19. Only 3% of designated infection preventionists in NHs have taken a basic infection control course. Little is known about the implementation of effective infection control practices in NHs. This study utilizes Project ECHO (Extension for Community Health Outcomes), an evidence-based tele-mentoring model, to connect subject matter experts with NH staff to proactively support evidence-based infection control guideline implementation. This study will determine how guidelines can be implemented effectively in NHs, including reducing COVID-19 diagnoses and improving other key patient-centered outcomes (e.g., quality of life) NHs (N=136) were recruited and assigned to ECHO or ECHO Plus using a randomized design. A multi-pronged approach to improving infection control and emergency preparedness in NHs is important. The ECHO model has significant strengths allowing for remote learning delivered by a multi-disciplinary team and utilizes case discussions that match the context and capacity of NHs.