Hillcrest Hospital Cushing: Commitment to safety

Hillcrest Hospital Cushing continues its focus on producing a safe environment for quality patient care. We take a comprehensive approach to maintain the safety of patients who entrust us with their care. A top priority is the elimination of hospital acquired infections. The risk of acquiring an infection during a hospitalization increases when patients are hospitalized. Numerous factors contribute to that increased risk including, but not limited to, immunosuppression, chronic illness, older age, length of stay, exposure to infectious pathogens and use of devices, such as urinary catheters and IV, as well as invasive procedures. We have implemented infection control strategies that make hospitalization safer for our patients, although not all risks can be eliminated. We have long had a strong infection control program, concentrated on reducing infection risks, proper treatment for infections and environmental controls. Our infection control program has focused areas, based on our community and population. Among our top priorities:

• Maintaining zero catheter associated urinary tract infections, also known as CAUTI.

• Maintaining zero central line bloodstream infections, also known as CLABSI.

• Since 2016, Hillcrest Cushing has zero hospital acquired CAUTI or CLABSI cases.

During Patient Safety Week, Hillcrest Cushing received an Ardent Award for longest days since last CAUTI (3,507 days, as of March 2022). This was achieved by focusing on the three actions, proper insertion to prevent introduction of bacteria, appropriate and timely care for urinary catheters and patient hygiene and prompt removal when no longer needed.

Thank you to the Cushing community and surrounding areas for allowing us to serve you. Our focus will always be on improving the care we provide to you and your loved ones.

Dee Renshaw
CEO