The October teleconference call was a rich discussion of INTERACT implementation strategies, hospital-transfer trends, and project outcomes, with a special focus on using the Stop & Watch. Here are some tips participants shared in the October teleconferences:

Stop & Watch

• Print the form on bright paper so that it is easy for staff to locate.  Different nursing homes have used yellow, orange, and red paper.
• Make the forms readily available to all staff members.  Some nursing homes put the forms at the nurses’ station, in the chart room, by the time clock, and in the linen room.  One nursing home recommends asking nurse aides where they would like the forms to be located.
• In-service all staff members—nurse aides, therapists, housekeeping personnel, etc.—on how to use the Stop & Watch.
• Provide positive feedback to staff for using the Stop & Watch.
• Remind staff that, “when it doubt, fill it out.”
• Print the form on NCR paper or ask staff to copy completed forms so that copies can go to the charge nurse and the DON.  The DON can then follow-up with the charge nurse to ensure that the resident was assessed.
• Several DONs file all completed Stop & Watches in a folder or binder.  Consider reviewing completed forms monthly to identify any trends in the changes reported.  If certain changes are frequently reported, conduct an in-service training aimed at preventing these changes in condition from occurring.