Medication Reconciliation quality audits (Brightshores Health System)

Medication reconciliation is “A formal process in which healthcare providers work together with patients to ensure accurate and comprehensive medication information is communicated consistently across transitions of care” and is known to decrease medication errors and reduce adverse medication events. Ensuring the information is as correct as possible at the time of documentation reduces confusion and ensures that the patient receives the intended medication therapy. Incomplete documentation of medications at transition points may actually promote incorrect medication use and sub-optimal care. There is a recognized quality scale for evaluating a best possible medication history (BPMH). Gathering data from these audits will enable managers and clinicians to improve medication reconciliation processes in their specific clinical environments. 

Improving Nutritional Status and Preventing Pressure Injuries in Frail Elderly Patients: A Multidisciplinary Approach to Enhancing Care (Brightshores Health System)

This capstone project focuses on improving the nutritional status and preventing pressure injuries (also known as pressure ulcers or bedsores) in frail elderly patients, who are at increased risk of both due to their age, frailty, and often complex medical conditions. Malnutrition and pressure injuries are common and debilitating health issues in this patient group, leading to longer hospital stays, complications, and reduced quality of life. The project will aim to assess the current care practices related to nutrition and pressure injury prevention, identify gaps in care, and develop a set of evidence-based strategies for improving outcomes. The purpose of this project is to create a comprehensive care model that involves early nutritional interventions, regular monitoring of patients' nutritional needs, and proactive measures to prevent pressure injuries. This will involve collaboration with nursing, dietary, and other healthcare professionals to ensure that frail elderly patients receive holistic, individualized care. The expected impact is a reduction in pressure injury development and an improvement in overall nutritional status, contributing to better recovery, fewer complications, and improved patient outcomes.

Bladder retraining protocol for spinal cord injury (Brightshores Health System)

Translate American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) guidelines to develop a nursing protocol for patient with neurological/traumatic spinal cord injuries that can be used in the acute care and rehabilitation settings. Student Involvement: Collaborative development of a protocol, possibly present to nursing practice council Resources Required: ASIA SCI program in neuroanatomy (ASTEP) and urinary incontinence management (UroSTEP)($50 course x 2). Remote development of the guidelines. Access to academic/hospital library. Access to Word, Powerpoint (or equivalent)

Integrating Indigenous Traditional Medicine into Western Health Care (Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre)

This project explores the development of a Traditional Medicine Garden within the pharmacy department of the new Innisfil hospital expansion. The goal is to integrate Indigenous Medicines into the hospital, providing access to traditional medicine. This initiative supports connecting to culturally safe care for Indigenous patients while looking at a collaborative approach between Indigenous knowledge keepers/Healers and health care providers. The project will outline the vision, design, implementation steps, and expected impact of such a space in a health care setting.