47A FULL CYCLE AUDIT: GET UP, GET DRESSED AND GET MOVING

Abstract

Introduction: EndPJParalysis is a campaign to encourage older hospital inpatients to sit out in a chair, get dressed and walk as much as possible to avoid deconditioning whilst in hospital. The aims of this audit were to identify the proportion of patients sitting out, getting dressed in home clothes and walking daily in an acute geriatric medical ward of unselected acute admission. Method(s): Data on whether patients were sat out in a chair at noon and 4 pm, dressed at noon and had walked by 4 pm were collected by a doctor by observation and questioning on two random days. Data from the audit were presented and meetings were held with stakeholders to explain results and find solutions to improve practice. A clothing bank was established and advertised through posters, social media and local radio. Local charities agreed to donate clothes monthly. Education sessions were held to increase awareness of the campaign. Re-audit was undertaken 4 months later. Result(s): There was significant improvement in every aspect following interventions. These excluded patients who were at the end of life, or very unwell patients. Conclusion(s): The biggest challenge was that this campaign was started in winter, a time of unremitting bed pressures, and competing service priorities. It was initially difficult to counter the absolute priority given to preventing falls by discouraging walking. Transformational and distributive leadership were demonstrated through this audit. Healthcare assistants were motivated through education and enthusiasm from senior clinical leaders. The healthcare assistants and doctor worked together, sharing leadership, ensuring the success of this campaign.