Commitment to Excellence: Hourly Rounding

What If You Could…..

• Reduce call lights by 38%• Reduce patient falls by 50%• Reduce skin breakdown by 14%• Improve patient satisfaction by 12 points

AND• Gain back 166 hours per month back to nursing

staff?

Hourly Rounding

However….

• You must instruct the patient and/or family on admission about hourly rounding (scripting). Tell about the 8 behaviors and the documentation.

• Must be done consistently by each caregiver. Every Patient, Every Time.

8 Behaviors of Hourly Rounding• Key words/Introduction• Perform scheduled tasks• Address Pain, Potty, Position• Address other comfort needs• Conduct environmental rounds• Use closing key words/actions• Explain when you will return• Document the round on log

Key Words/Introduction

• Key Words let the patient know who you are, what your role is and level of expertise.

• “Round” is a familiar term with patients and they know – if consistent – what to expect each time.

• This consistency builds trust and helps to reduce patient anxiety.

Perform Scheduled Tasks

• Complete any scheduled tasks that are needed for that patient.

• Included would be medications scheduled for that hour, treatments, procedures, feedings, etc.

• Allows inclusion of scheduled work in the rounding process so that everything can be accomplished in just one trip.

Assess and address the 3 P’s

• Address the 3 items that call lights are used most often – pain, potty and position.

• Address proactively and you can reduce majority of call lights.

Address Additional Comfort Needs

• Fluffing pillows• Straightening sheets• Filling water pitchers • Offering something to drink

Conduct Environmental Assessment

• Is the call light within reach?• Is the telephone within reach?• Are the light switch and TV control accessible?• Is the trash can next to the bed?• Is the bedside table within reach?• Does the patient look comfortable and is the

patient covered to protect personal privacy?• Is the room clear of clutter?

Use Closing Key Words and/or Actions

• “Is there anything else I can do for you?”

Explain When You or Others will Return

• When you tell patients when you will return, they will begin to cluster their requests in the context of the round.

Document the Round on the Log• Accountability Measure