In an effort to enhance patient care experience scores, KP SRO launched the Purposeful Hourly Rounding (PHR) project in May 2024.
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly limited interactions with our patients, creating challenges in maintaining high levels of engagement and communication. To address this, we developed a simulation to reinforce the principles of purposeful hourly rounding using the 5 P’s:
- Pain
- Position
- Personal Needs
- Periphery/Pump
- Plan
Evidence-based research has demonstrated that purposeful hourly rounding minimizes call bell use, reduces patient falls, decreases HAPIs (hospital-acquired pressure injuries), improves care team efficiency, and enhances overall patient experience. While hourly rounding is ideal, the emphasis is on purposefulness, acknowledging the constraints of real-world healthcare environments.
This simulation allows care team members to practice narrating care as it is performed. Actions that seem routine to staff can often be misinterpreted by patients, so clear communication is vital. Studies show that 80% of patients may not voice their needs or concerns unless prompted, making proactive and purposeful rounding critical.
The project focused on staff training and simulations to ensure that all members of the care team were confident in their rounding skills. Practicing with colleagues in a safe environment prepared staff to effectively implement these practices with patients.
Since the launch of PHR, Adult Services units have surpassed the goal of 80% PHR documentation in both October and November. Additionally, there has been a significant correlation between the implementation of PHR and improved care experience scores, specifically in the “Likelihood to Recommend Hospital” and “RN Listened Carefully” metrics.