Fiscally responsible care?

[dannygirl04]

What are some examples of things a nursing student may do in clinical that could be considered fiscally responsible care? Obviously I know not wasting supplies would be fiscally responsible, but then I draw a blank after that.

[mariebailey, MSN, RN]

Compliance with preventive safety & infection control policies is an example of where you can find potential cost savings. Hospital acquired infections (HAI) cost us billions annually in this country, & many are preventable if HCWs wash their hands, follow transmission precautions, etc.. Falls & injuries involve preventable costs too; they could be avoided with things like bed in low position, side rails up, identifying & monitoring those at risk, etc.

[mrsboots87]

I definitely like infection control mentioned in the previous comment. CAUTI, hospital aquired pneumonia, and falls in the hospital are things that are NOT covered by Medicaid and I'm sure insurance companies as well. So if a student can work to prevent those infections (or injuries) then they will help save the hospital money.

My daughter had a one night admit in the hospital for a relatively minor issue (in comparison to a really ill or severely injured child) and the bill was just under $10,000. Thankfully I have insurance and owe a fraction of that. But imagine what an extended stay with treatments cost a hospital for these preventable things.