DISCOVER and R.E.A.C.T. involves a two-step, systematic approach to prevent and manage pressure injuries in the ED. Step 1 involves ‘DISCOVER’ which includes "skin inspection, that is head-to-toe, and using the grading tool, on you go!" Step 2 is initiated when a pressure injury is discovered. Step 2 follows the ‘R.E.A.C.T.’ mnemonic which involves Risk Man; Educate; Advocate; Care; and Turn.
DISCOVER and R.E.A.C.T.
Summary
Aim
The aim of this quality initiative is to improve patient care by raising awareness, educating, and reinforcing to nursing staff the significance of early detection and management of pressure injuries in the Emergency Department (ED).
Benefits
Improved performance in compliance for skin inspections documented within the first eight hours of presentations; improved awareness of pressure injury prevention and appropriate dressing solutions in accordance with the type of injury and the stage of injury; improved delivery of comprehensive care to our patients in the emergency environment.
Background
Redland Hospital ED staff identified a need to change the current process for addressing skin integrity in the Emergency Department. As a result of a pre-initiative questionnaire, it was revealed that there was a significant knowledge gap surrounding pressure injuries among nursing staff including how to grade pressure injuries against the staging tool, and how to determine which dressings are appropriate for the stage of pressure injury. From this result, the project evolved.