Significant reduction in length of stay and readmission rate over 3 years on an ACE unit optimized with daily SIBR
Top Results
Overview
In a study conducted by the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, the implementation of daily Structured Interdisciplinary Bedside Rounds (SIBR) on an Acute Care for Elders (ACE) unit significantly reduced length of stay (LOS) and 30-day readmission rates.
Objectives
To assess the impact of implementing daily Structured Interdisciplinary Bedside Rounds (SIBR) on LOS and readmission rates in an ACE unit.
Methods
The study was conducted on a 10-bed ACE unit utilizing SIBR as a communication tool among the interdisciplinary team, which included a nurse practitioner (NP), social worker, therapist, nurse-aide, and geriatrician. The geriatrician was present for only 8 hours per week, optimizing cost savings. The study tracked LOS and 30-day readmission rates for three years, comparing the ACE unit’s outcomes with a similar control population not utilizing SIBR.
Results
Length of Stay (LOS):
Patients returning home: 3.73 days vs. 4.21 days in control (P = 0.001)
Patients discharged to SNF: 5.24 days vs. 7.26 days in control (P < 0.001)
30-Day Readmissions:
Patients discharged to SNF: 11.68% vs. 14.70% in control (P < 0.05)
Conclusion
The implementation of daily Structured Interdisciplinary Bedside Rounds (SIBR) on the ACE unit significantly reduced both length of stay and 30-day readmission rates. These results highlight the effectiveness of SIBR in improving patient outcomes and optimizing team communication in a healthcare setting, particularly for older adults with frailty and chronic conditions.
