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.

Expected Outcomes & Deliverables:

Anticipated Results:

• A thorough assessment report of current hospital practices regarding nutrition and pressure injury prevention in frail elderly patients.
• Development of a set of evidence-based nursing interventions to improve nutritional intake and prevent pressure injuries in this patient group.
• A proposal for regular screening protocols for nutritional status and pressure injury risk assessments.
• Creation of an educational toolkit or training module for nursing staff to enhance awareness and implementation of effective interventions.

Benefits to Organization and Students:

• Organization: The hospital will benefit from improved patient outcomes, including a reduction in the incidence of pressure injuries and improved nutritional status in frail elderly patients. This can lead to shorter hospital stays, fewer complications, and reduced healthcare costs associated with treating pressure injuries and malnutrition.
• Students: The project provides students with practical experience in implementing evidence-based nursing interventions and working within a multidisciplinary team. It will enhance their understanding of the complex needs of frail elderly patients and allow them to contribute meaningfully to improving care in a hospital setting.

Student Involvement:

The student will take on several essential roles throughout the project, including:

• Literature Review & Research: The student will conduct a comprehensive review of current evidence on best practices for improving nutritional status and preventing pressure injuries in frail elderly patients. This will include analyzing recent studies, guidelines, and expert recommendations.
• Data Collection & Observational Study: The student will work with the nursing team to observe current care practices for frail elderly patients, including nutritional assessments and pressure injury prevention protocols. They will gather data on the prevalence of malnutrition and pressure injuries in the patient population.
• Development of Interventions: Based on research findings, the student will help develop specific, evidence-based interventions and care protocols to improve nutritional status and prevent pressure injuries. This will involve creating guidelines for nutritional screening, supplements, and preventive positioning techniques for pressure injuries.
• Educational Materials & Training Program: The student will contribute to designing educational materials or an interactive training program for nursing and allied healthcare staff to raise awareness and improve the implementation of preventive measures.
• Collaboration: The student will collaborate with dietitians, physiotherapists, wound care specialists, and nurses to ensure a holistic approach to care. This will also involve working with the hospital's quality improvement team to ensure that proposed changes align with existing protocols.

The student's involvement will primarily be onsite for data collection, collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, and direct observation of care practices. However, remote work will be involved for literature review, development of written reports, and preparation of educational resources.

Resources Required

To ensure the successful completion of this project, the following resources will be required:

• Patient Data & Records: The student will need access to deidentified patient data or records on frail elderly patients, including nutritional assessments, pressure injury risk assessments, and existing care plans related to these issues.
• Hospital Protocols & Guidelines: The student will need access to current hospital policies and guidelines related to nutrition, pressure injury prevention, and care for frail elderly patients.
• Collaboration with Multidisciplinary Team: The student will require cooperation from dietitians, wound care specialists, and nursing staff to develop comprehensive interventions. This includes guidance on the latest evidence-based practices for nutrition and pressure injury prevention.
• Technology & Tools: The student may need access to data analysis software (such as Excel or SPSS) to analyze patient data and develop strategies for care improvement. The student will also need access to presentation tools (such as PowerPoint or Canva) to create training materials.
• Educational Resources: The student will need access to current materials on nutritional management for elderly patients, pressure injury prevention, and related care practices to support the creation of training modules for staff.
• Ethics Approval (if applicable): If the project involves the use of patient data or direct patient interaction, the student may need ethics approval from the hospital’s research board or ethics committee.

By having access to these resources, the student will be equipped to conduct meaningful research, collaborate effectively with healthcare teams, and propose actionable interventions to improve the nutritional status and prevent pressure injuries in frail elderly patients.

Support Offered to Students

This capstone project will allow the student to engage in meaningful, hands-on research and interventions that can significantly improve the care and outcomes of frail elderly patients in a hospital setting. By addressing these critical issues, the student will not only contribute to better patient care but also enhance their own skills and knowledge in geriatric nursing, evidence-based practice, and interdisciplinary collaboration.