Implementing the WeeFIM System in Outpatient Pediatric Rehabilitation

<p>Abstract</p> <p>This project was designed to achieve an unmet criteria in the accreditation process for the outpatient pediatric rehabilitation program at a local, community hospital in the greater Bay Area. The clients range from 6 months old to 20 years old with functional disabilities. The Commission of Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) requires that applicants demonstrate outcome measure data over a 6 month time period. During the self-evaluation process this was noted to be a deficiency in the department’s efforts. The WeeFIM system was chosen as the first tool to implement in the department. This is a functional improvement measurement tool based on 18 categories of ability. For this project, the staff was prepared and the tool was implemented over a 2-month period. The goal was to get baseline data for 98% of all outpatients seen in the month of July 2017. The team of 6 rehabilitation specialists, including physical therapists, occupational therapists and registered nurses, exceeded the primary goal by achieving 100% compliance in the 1^st month of use.</p> <p>The WeeFIM system was chosen as the most appropriate outcome measure tool for the departments needs based on a literature review, input from the multidisciplinary team and peer review. The participating staff was trained through online modules provided by the WeeFIM system as well as through a number of open discussion forums. Each participating team member passed a calibration exam that ensured the outcomes were measured without much variability between individuals.</p> <p>This project was successful and is projected to create a large influx of revenue and client referrals to the department. It has been supported by leadership and stakeholders. The continuation of this project will require a great deal of energy and attention but the outcomes for the clients, their families and the hospital itself are exponential. </p>

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Level thesis:degree_level

Project/Capstone - Global access

Year dc:date.available

2017

Author dc:creator

• Ratilainen, Chelsea

Contributors dc:contributor

• Elena Capella

• WeeFIM
• pediatrics
• rehabilitation
• outcome measures
• data
• CARF
• outpatient
• assessment
• outcome tools
• functional improvement measures
• accreditation
• Health Information Technology
• Medical Education
• Occupational Therapy
• Pediatric Nursing
• Physical Therapy
• Rehabilitation and Therapy

Repository record dc:identifier

https://repository.usfca.edu/capstone/589

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:repository.usfca.edu:capstone-1610