Orthostatic Vital Signs Algorithm: Decreasing Falls in Patients Undergoing Blood and Marrow Transplantation or Treatment With Cellular Immunotherapy

Balance Function after Balance Exercise Assist Robot Therapy in Patients Undergoing Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation: A Pilot Study

Objectives

This study compared the balance function in patients after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) with their balance function after subsequent training sessions with a Balance Exercise Assist Robot (BEAR).

Methods

In this prospective observational study, inpatients who underwent allo-HSCT from human leukocyte antigen-mismatched relatives were enrolled from December 2015 to October 2017. Patients were allowed to leave their clean room after allo-HSCT and underwent balance exercise training using the BEAR. Sessions (20-40 min) were performed 5 days per week and consisted of three games that were performed four times each. A total of 15 sessions were performed by each patient. Patient balance function was assessed before BEAR therapy according to the mini-balance evaluation systems test (mini-BESTest), and patients were divided into two groups (Low and High) based on a 70% cut-off value for the total mini-BESTest score. Patient balance was also assessed after BEAR therapy.

Results

Fourteen patients providing written informed consent fulfilled the protocol: six patients in the Low group, and eight patients in the High group. In the Low group, there was a statistically significant difference between pre- and post-evaluations in postural response, which a sub-item of the mini-BESTest. In the High group, there was no significant difference between pre- and post-evaluations in the mini-BESTest.

Conclusions

BEAR sessions improve balance function in patients undergoing allo-HSCT.

Clinical Nurse Specialist as Nurse Researcher: Development of SMART Metrics and Dashboard to Articulate Role

PURPOSE

The purpose of this article is to present how metrics and dashboards, using the SMART model, are used to articulate the clinical nurse specialist (CNS) nurse researcher role.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT

Following the SMART model, a dashboard was created highlighting measurable metrics for each of the 3 spheres of impact to align with the center's nursing strategic plan and initiatives, including Magnet redesignation.

OUTCOME

Metrics reflecting the 3 spheres of impact and corresponding dashboard with successfully met outcomes are presented for the CNS nurse researcher.

CONCLUSION

Metrics and dashboards are important tools that CNSs can use to capture their activities, set goals, and articulate their unique roles to both internal and external stakeholders. Dashboards, such as the one presented, are easily adaptable and can be updated on a regular basis.