Direct support professionals play a critical role in recognizing health concerns before they become emergencies. Our DSP Guide Series explores the “Fatal Five” conditions that disproportionately affect individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, providing practical education on risk factors, warning signs, prevention strategies, and early intervention.
Understanding Sleep Challenges in Post-Acute and Long-Term Care
Sleep plays a critical role in nearly every aspect of health, from memory and cognition to immune function, mood, and physical well-being. Yet sleep disturbances are common among older adults, particularly those in post-acute and long-term care settings. In this article, explore the factors that contribute to poor sleep, the impact sleep deprivation can have on resident outcomes, and practical strategies care teams can implement to promote healthier sleep habits and improve quality of life.
Did You Know? Performing an Internal Expired Medication Inventory Audit
Our updated guide provides a standardized framework for auditing medication carts and storage areas to identify expired or soon-to-expire drugs. Using this tool, facilities can improve inventory management, ensure they meet survey readiness standards, and maintain the highest level of resident safety. The guide features a comprehensive audit checklist designed to streamline your monthly medication storage inspections and ensure no expiration dates are overlooked.
2026 Update to the Long-Stay Antipsychotic Quality Measure
One of the quality measures that contributes to a facility's Five-Star Rating System score is the use of antipsychotic medications. Due to concerns about underreporting, CMS announced re-specifications to the long-stay antipsychotic quality measure, effective January 2026. This Compliance Cue provides an overview of the re-specifications, steps for maintaining compliance, and how your pharmacist can help.
This session will explore the key concerns surrounding diabetes in the I/DD population, including strategies for effective disease management to enhance health outcomes and quality of life.
We'll examine treatment options while considering factors that influence therapy decisions, including common co-morbidities, metabolic concerns, adherence challenges, and medication administration difficulties. We'll conclude with practical tips on collaborating with consultant pharmacists, nurses, and prescribers to optimize health, safety, and diabetes care.
Understanding the Revised Psychotropic Quality Measure Changes – Part 1
CMS has revised the Quality Measure that tracks psychotropic medication used by skilled nursing facilities. This interactive session will describe the data structure and changes to the foundation data that creates the performance statistics.
The change in data used to calculate the Quality Measure report requires that the facility's operational and clinical team work with their pharmacy provider and Medical Director to understand the QM reports. This will be the first of a two-part program to assist facility leadership in adapting to these changes. This is a must-attend session with resources and training materials for leadership.
PharMerica, 805 N. Whittington Pkwy, Louisville, KY 40222, United States
