Publications by authors named "Stephanie A Ballard"

Background: Delirium is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality among older people admitted to both acute and long-term care facilities (LTCFs). Multicomponent interventions have been shown to reduce delirium incidence in the acute care setting (30-73%) by acting on modifiable risk factors. Little work, however, has focused on using this approach to reduce delirium incidence in LTCFs.

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Currently available elder abuse screening and identification tools have limitations for use in long-term care (LTC). This mixed-methods study sought to explore the appropriateness of using the Elder Abuse Suspicion Index© (a suspicion tool originally created for use with older adults in the ambulatory setting with Mini-Mental State Examination scores ≥ 24) with similarly cognitively functioning persons residing in LTC. Results were informed by a literature review, Internet-based consultations with elder abuse experts across Canada ( = 19), and data obtained from two purposively selected focus groups ( = 7 local elder abuse experts; = 7 experienced front-line LTC clinicians).

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Although specialized communication tools can effectively reduce acute care transfers, few studies have assessed the factors that may influence the use of such tools by nursing staff at the individual level. We evaluated the associations between years of experience, tool-related training, nursing attitudes, and intensity of use of a communication tool developed to reduce transfers in a long-term care facility. We employed a mixed methods design using data from medical charts, electronic records, and semi-structured interviews.

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Synopsis of recent research by authors named "Stephanie A Ballard"

  • Stephanie A Ballard's research primarily focuses on improving patient care and outcomes in long-term care facilities, particularly addressing issues like delirium, elder abuse, and acute care transfers among older adults.
  • Her studies utilize mixed-methods approaches to adapt existing tools and protocols, such as the Elder Abuse Suspicion Index©, for better applicability and efficacy in long-term care settings.
  • Ballard's findings emphasize the importance of multicomponent interventions, training, and communication strategies to enhance the quality of care and reduce preventable health incidents in vulnerable populations.