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Browse PlansCathleen Armato
RN, CHC
Cathleen Armato is an experienced executive with 22 years in the home care and hospice industry. She has served in various roles during that time, including VP of operations and chief compliance officer for a nationwide healthcare provider. In 2012, Cat became a consultant. Since that time, she has assisted multiple organizations with their compliance and quality efforts, from program assessment to full program development and implementation. Cat also has experience as a compliance consultant for large organizations under corporate integrity agreements.
Cat has expertise in giving guidance and support to providers and their legal counsel during investigations by the Department of Justice, Office of the Inspector General, Zone Program Integrity Contractors, Specialty Medical Review Contractors, Medicaid Integrity Contractors, and Medicare Administrative Contractors. She also has extensive experience in due diligence evaluations and is an ELNEC Train-the-Trainer.
Cat coauthored a portion of the 2022 Healthcare Compliance Manual. She also served as assistant author for The Nurse Manager's Survival Guide: Practical Answers to Everyday Questions by Tina Marrelli. She is a contributor/reviewer for multiple healthcare publications by Tina Marrelli, including Home Care Nursing (2017), Handbook of Home Health Standards (2018), Hospice and Palliative Care Handbook (2018), and A Guide for Caregiving (2017).
Courses with Cathleen Armato
Browse Course CatalogConstipation Management
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC and Clinical Procedure Manual Review Board
Constipation Management
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Total Course Timing: 24 Minutes
This course will cover the proper procedure as well as risk identification, caregiver education, and other care considerations for the prevention and palliative management of constipation.
This course will cover the proper procedure as well as risk identification, caregiver education, and other care considerations for the prevention and palliative management of constipation.
Seizures Symptom Management
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC and Clinical Procedure Manual Review Board
Seizures Symptom Management
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Total Course Timing: 23 Minutes
This course will cover the proper procedure as well as patient education, documentation guidelines, and care considerations for the management of seizure symptoms.
This course will cover the proper procedure as well as patient education, documentation guidelines, and care considerations for the management of seizure symptoms.
Management of Terminal Hemorrhage
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC and Clinical Procedure Manual Review Board
Management of Terminal Hemorrhage
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Total Course Timing: 23 Minutes
This course will cover the proper procedure as well as patient education, documentation guidelines, and care considerations for the management of a terminal hemorrhage.
This course will cover the proper procedure as well as patient education, documentation guidelines, and care considerations for the management of a terminal hemorrhage.
Determination of Death
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC and Clinical Procedure Manual Review Board
Determination of Death
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Total Course Timing: 23 Minutes
This course will cover the proper procedure as well as caregiver education, special circumstances, and other care considerations for the determination of death for a hospice patient.
This course will cover the proper procedure as well as caregiver education, special circumstances, and other care considerations for the determination of death for a hospice patient.
Management of Hiccups
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC and Clinical Procedure Manual Review Board
Management of Hiccups
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Total Course Timing: 23 Minutes
This course will cover the proper procedure as well as patient education, documentation guidelines, and care considerations for the management of hiccups.
This course will cover the proper procedure as well as patient education, documentation guidelines, and care considerations for the management of hiccups.
Pain Assessment
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC and Clinical Procedure Manual Review Board
Pain Assessment
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Total Course Timing: 23 Minutes
This course will cover the proper procedure as well as evidence-based tools and other care considerations for thorough pain assessments at end-of-life.
This course will cover the proper procedure as well as evidence-based tools and other care considerations for thorough pain assessments at end-of-life.
Opioid Conversion Factors
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC and Clinical Procedure Manual Review Board
Opioid Conversion Factors
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Total Course Timing: 23 Minutes
This course looks at conversions from short-acting to long-acting, routes of administration and their bioavailability, when to rotate opioids, and rotation of opioids by calculating the morphine milligram equivalent (MME).
This course looks at conversions from short-acting to long-acting, routes of administration and their bioavailability, when to rotate opioids, and rotation of opioids by calculating the morphine milligram equivalent (MME).
Spiritual Needs Assessment
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC and Clinical Procedure Manual Review Board
Spiritual Needs Assessment
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Total Course Timing: 23 Minutes
This course will cover the proper procedure as well as patient education, documentation guidelines, and care considerations for spiritual needs assessments.
This course will cover the proper procedure as well as patient education, documentation guidelines, and care considerations for spiritual needs assessments.
Pain Management
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC and Clinical Procedure Manual Review Board
Pain Management
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Total Course Timing: 24 Minutes
This course will cover the proper procedure as well as patient education, documentation guidelines, and care considerations for pain management.
This course will cover the proper procedure as well as patient education, documentation guidelines, and care considerations for pain management.
Hospice Certifications and Recertifications
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC
Hospice Certifications and Recertifications
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Video Runtime: 19 Minutes; Learning Assessment Time: 23 Minutes
The hospice certification and recertification process is a critical component in compliance and quality care. Despite the significance, many clinicians do not have a clear understanding of the process and their role in that process. Timing of the certification and face-to-face encounter, verbal certifications, written certifications, physician narratives, and other elements can be confusing, and this may result in errors that impact the patient, the hospice, and the individual clinicians. In this course, we will review the regulatory requirements and the individual responsibilities of each team member in the certification and recertification process. After taking this course, team members will have a strong understanding of the process and their role.
The hospice certification and recertification process is a critical component in compliance and quality care. Despite the significance, many clinicians do not have a clear understanding of the process and their role in that process. Timing of the certification and face-to-face encounter, verbal certifications, written certifications, physician narratives, and other elements can be confusing, and this may result in errors that impact the patient, the hospice, and the individual clinicians. In this course, we will review the regulatory requirements and the individual responsibilities of each team member in the certification and recertification process. After taking this course, team members will have a strong understanding of the process and their role.
Success With Hospice Volunteers: Selection, Education, and Retention
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC
Success With Hospice Volunteers: Selection, Education, and Retention
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Video Runtime: 61 Minutes; Learning Assessment Time: 33 Minutes
Volunteer coordinators juggle patient care, care planning, human resources, and retention efforts. According to Medicare, volunteers are considered unpaid employees and require the same background screening, onboarding process, and ongoing education. This course will examine ways to onboard, train, and retain this valuable resource to produce a vibrant volunteer program. Through the development of appropriate and formalized methods for screening, education, communication, and engagement, the volunteer coordinator can establish a successful program and personal career.
Volunteer coordinators juggle patient care, care planning, human resources, and retention efforts. According to Medicare, volunteers are considered unpaid employees and require the same background screening, onboarding process, and ongoing education. This course will examine ways to onboard, train, and retain this valuable resource to produce a vibrant volunteer program. Through the development of appropriate and formalized methods for screening, education, communication, and engagement, the volunteer coordinator can establish a successful program and personal career.
Policies and Procedures: What’s in It for Me?
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC
Policies and Procedures: What’s in It for Me?
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Video Runtime: 16 Minutes; Learning Assessment Time: 23 Minutes
What if you knew there was a resource at your organization that protected you legally? What if you knew not using this resource put you at risk? In your day-to-day activities, policies and procedures should be your go-to resource for what to do in almost every situation. From how to request paid time off to how to handle a suicidal patient, policies and procedures define specific courses of action to take. It may seem easier to just ask a coworker or supervisor how to handle a situation, but by doing that, you may lose the protections you have. This course reviews the best ways to use policies and procedures to protect yourself, your license, and the patients you serve.
What if you knew there was a resource at your organization that protected you legally? What if you knew not using this resource put you at risk? In your day-to-day activities, policies and procedures should be your go-to resource for what to do in almost every situation. From how to request paid time off to how to handle a suicidal patient, policies and procedures define specific courses of action to take. It may seem easier to just ask a coworker or supervisor how to handle a situation, but by doing that, you may lose the protections you have. This course reviews the best ways to use policies and procedures to protect yourself, your license, and the patients you serve.
Nurse Autonomy: What It Is and What It Is Not
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC
Nurse Autonomy: What It Is and What It Is Not
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Video Runtime: 15 Minutes; Learning Assessment Time: 23 Minutes
Autonomy is the ability to act according to your knowledge and judgment within the full scope of your practice, to act independently, and also to assume responsibility for your decisions. Practicing with autonomy can lead to better patient outcomes and higher job satisfaction. In nursing, especially in a home or other nonconventional environment, autonomy is frequently misunderstood, and nurses can easily cross the line into practicing medicine. There are prerequisites to practicing autonomously. With a clear understanding of the limitations and prerequisites, the nurse is better prepared to function at the highest level while protecting both the patient and the nurse's license.
Autonomy is the ability to act according to your knowledge and judgment within the full scope of your practice, to act independently, and also to assume responsibility for your decisions. Practicing with autonomy can lead to better patient outcomes and higher job satisfaction. In nursing, especially in a home or other nonconventional environment, autonomy is frequently misunderstood, and nurses can easily cross the line into practicing medicine. There are prerequisites to practicing autonomously. With a clear understanding of the limitations and prerequisites, the nurse is better prepared to function at the highest level while protecting both the patient and the nurse's license.
Pain Management Part 1: Foundational Information
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC
Pain Management Part 1: Foundational Information
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Video Runtime: 21 Minutes, Learning Assessments: 23 Minutes
This course will examine the terminology related to pain assessment and management to help ensure strong communication between nurses, physicians, the interdisciplinary team, and the patient/family. The purpose is to lay the foundation for the remainder of the courses in this pain management series, help the clinician avoid misunderstandings, and prevent potential errors.
The course will also explore potential barriers to effective pain management, including those within the health system, the clinician's biases, and the perceptions of the patient and family. In addition, the course will review the management of opioids in a time of increased state and federal scrutiny.
This course is appropriate for any healthcare provider or interdisciplinary team member dealing with patients in pain.
This course will examine the terminology related to pain assessment and management to help ensure strong communication between nurses, physicians, the interdisciplinary team, and the patient/family. The purpose is to lay the foundation for the remainder of the courses in this pain management series, help the clinician avoid misunderstandings, and prevent potential errors.
The course will also explore potential barriers to effective pain management, including those within the health system, the clinician's biases, and the perceptions of the patient and family. In addition, the course will review the management of opioids in a time of increased state and federal scrutiny.
This course is appropriate for any healthcare provider or interdisciplinary team member dealing with patients in pain.
Pain Management Part 2: Pain Types and Etiology
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC
Pain Management Part 2: Pain Types and Etiology
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Video Runtime: 13 Minutes, Learning Assessments: 31 Minutes
The type of pain a patient experiences can frequently assist the clinician in determining the etiology, or cause, of that pain. Pain types are effectively treated very differently, and a thorough pain assessment includes gathering the information needed to determine the etiology and the appropriate treatments.
This course reviews neuropathic, somatic, and visceral pain as well as acute, chronic, and high-impact chronic pain. We will examine the etiology, location, and descriptors used by patients to describe each pain type. With this information, the clinician is better positioned to recommend and advocate for appropriate pain management treatment and help the patient avoid unwanted side effects.
This course is appropriate for any healthcare provider or interdisciplinary team member dealing with patients in pain.
The type of pain a patient experiences can frequently assist the clinician in determining the etiology, or cause, of that pain. Pain types are effectively treated very differently, and a thorough pain assessment includes gathering the information needed to determine the etiology and the appropriate treatments.
This course reviews neuropathic, somatic, and visceral pain as well as acute, chronic, and high-impact chronic pain. We will examine the etiology, location, and descriptors used by patients to describe each pain type. With this information, the clinician is better positioned to recommend and advocate for appropriate pain management treatment and help the patient avoid unwanted side effects.
This course is appropriate for any healthcare provider or interdisciplinary team member dealing with patients in pain.
Pain Management Part 3: The Thorough Pain Assessment
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC
Pain Management Part 3: The Thorough Pain Assessment
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Video Runtime: 20 Minutes, Learning Assessments: 23 Minutes
Many clinicians rely on a one-dimensional pain assessment. While there may be times where this is appropriate, more frequently this type of assessment can lead to improper pain treatments and lack of pain relief for the patient.
This course examines the rationale and provides evidence-based tools for a complete thorough pain assessment. Using this information, clinicians can increase their professionalism and clinical proficiency, and work toward better outcomes for their patients.
This course is appropriate for any healthcare provider or interdisciplinary team member dealing with patients in pain.
Many clinicians rely on a one-dimensional pain assessment. While there may be times where this is appropriate, more frequently this type of assessment can lead to improper pain treatments and lack of pain relief for the patient.
This course examines the rationale and provides evidence-based tools for a complete thorough pain assessment. Using this information, clinicians can increase their professionalism and clinical proficiency, and work toward better outcomes for their patients.
This course is appropriate for any healthcare provider or interdisciplinary team member dealing with patients in pain.
Pain Management Part 4: Adjuvants and Nonpharmacologic Interventions
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC
Pain Management Part 4: Adjuvants and Nonpharmacologic Interventions
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Video Runtime: 11 Minutes, Learning Assessments: 31 Minutes
Building on the previous courses in this series, we will examine how different types of pain require and respond to different categories of pain medication and how adjuvant medications and nonpharmacologic interventions can assist with effective pain management.
This course empowers clinicians to use a full arsenal of pain treatments to effectively treat and manage pain. By understanding which medication category best treats each pain type and by knowing how adjuvant and nonpharmacologic therapies assist with pain management, clinicians can help patients achieve a higher level of pain relief and greater satisfaction with care.
This course is appropriate for any healthcare provider or interdisciplinary team member dealing with patients in pain.
Building on the previous courses in this series, we will examine how different types of pain require and respond to different categories of pain medication and how adjuvant medications and nonpharmacologic interventions can assist with effective pain management.
This course empowers clinicians to use a full arsenal of pain treatments to effectively treat and manage pain. By understanding which medication category best treats each pain type and by knowing how adjuvant and nonpharmacologic therapies assist with pain management, clinicians can help patients achieve a higher level of pain relief and greater satisfaction with care.
This course is appropriate for any healthcare provider or interdisciplinary team member dealing with patients in pain.
Pain Management Part 5: Opioids for Pain Management
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC
Pain Management Part 5: Opioids for Pain Management
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Video Runtime: 14 Minutes, Learning Assessments: 31 Minutes
Opioid management is a learned skill requiring the clinician to understand best practices when initiating, titrating, and rotating opioids. Pain management experts also need to have a strong understanding of calculating breakthrough dosing and managing ongoing monitoring.
This course discusses the implementation, titration, and complex rotation of opioids. With methodical use of evidence-based best practices, patients can achieve a higher satisfaction level with their pain management and clinicians can feel confident with their skills.
This advanced course is applicable for clinicians in all healthcare settings who have a role in patient pain management.
Opioid management is a learned skill requiring the clinician to understand best practices when initiating, titrating, and rotating opioids. Pain management experts also need to have a strong understanding of calculating breakthrough dosing and managing ongoing monitoring.
This course discusses the implementation, titration, and complex rotation of opioids. With methodical use of evidence-based best practices, patients can achieve a higher satisfaction level with their pain management and clinicians can feel confident with their skills.
This advanced course is applicable for clinicians in all healthcare settings who have a role in patient pain management.
Pain Management Part 6: Management of Opioid Side Effects
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC
Pain Management Part 6: Management of Opioid Side Effects
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Video Runtime: 13 Minutes, Learning Assessments: 23 Minutes
Opioid management is a learned skill requiring the clinician to understand the mechanisms and metabolites of opioids and how to effectively deal with the adverse side effects of this necessary treatment.
This advanced course will help the clinician identify and prepare for the most common side effects and evaluate less common side effects. The course will also cover management of side effects that can sometimes be serious, including when to rotate opioids.
This final course in the pain series is appropriate for nurses and case managers in all settings who assist in pain management.
Opioid management is a learned skill requiring the clinician to understand the mechanisms and metabolites of opioids and how to effectively deal with the adverse side effects of this necessary treatment.
This advanced course will help the clinician identify and prepare for the most common side effects and evaluate less common side effects. The course will also cover management of side effects that can sometimes be serious, including when to rotate opioids.
This final course in the pain series is appropriate for nurses and case managers in all settings who assist in pain management.
Patient Notification of Hospice Non-Covered Items, Services, and Drugs
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC
Patient Notification of Hospice Non-Covered Items, Services, and Drugs
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Video Runtime: 15 Minutes, Learning Assessments: 23 Minutes
The Patient Notification of Hospice Non-Covered Items, Services, and Drugs has been challenging for hospices to implement and to track. Additionally, clinicians are frequently unsure how and when to complete this form.
This course will familiarize the clinician with the Patient Notification of Hospice Non-Covered Items, Services, and Drugs, when and how to complete the form, and the consequences of not completing the form.
This course is appropriate for any hospice personnel who participate in the admission process or in the ongoing care of patients receiving hospice services.
The Patient Notification of Hospice Non-Covered Items, Services, and Drugs has been challenging for hospices to implement and to track. Additionally, clinicians are frequently unsure how and when to complete this form.
This course will familiarize the clinician with the Patient Notification of Hospice Non-Covered Items, Services, and Drugs, when and how to complete the form, and the consequences of not completing the form.
This course is appropriate for any hospice personnel who participate in the admission process or in the ongoing care of patients receiving hospice services.
The Admission Process: The Hospice Medicare Election and Addendum
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC
The Admission Process: The Hospice Medicare Election and Addendum
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Video Runtime: 20 Minutes; Learning Assessment Time: 15 Minutes
During the admission process, the election statement is frequently viewed by the hospice team as a technical requirement. While it is that, it is also part of the process of making sure the patient and/or the patient's representative is informed and has been given an opportunity to make decisions. These decisions include choosing the hospice and the attending physician and determining when hospice care starts. Medicare is increasingly focused on a patient's right to be involved in decisions when it comes to their own care. The technical requirements of a hospice election statement are there to protect patients and their representatives and ensure they understand how the benefit works, including what will and will not be covered under their election. Additionally, there are many times in hospice when a patient may not be able to make decisions or sign the election and will have a representative. This course reviews the technical requirements and the decision-making authority of representatives.
During the admission process, the election statement is frequently viewed by the hospice team as a technical requirement. While it is that, it is also part of the process of making sure the patient and/or the patient's representative is informed and has been given an opportunity to make decisions. These decisions include choosing the hospice and the attending physician and determining when hospice care starts. Medicare is increasingly focused on a patient's right to be involved in decisions when it comes to their own care. The technical requirements of a hospice election statement are there to protect patients and their representatives and ensure they understand how the benefit works, including what will and will not be covered under their election. Additionally, there are many times in hospice when a patient may not be able to make decisions or sign the election and will have a representative. This course reviews the technical requirements and the decision-making authority of representatives.
Fundamentals of Effective Hospice Documentation
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC
Fundamentals of Effective Hospice Documentation
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Video Runtime: 45 Minutes; Learning Assessment Time: 30 Minutes
The clinical record is the most reliable source of information in ongoing medical care and quality improvement, defense of claims, and any legal proceedings. Unfortunately, documentation frequently omits significant parts of the care and efforts of the hospice team. Complete and accurate documentation can support positive outcomes for the patient, the organization, and the clinician. Interdisciplinary team members with a strong understanding of the purpose and use of the clinical record and required documentation are better positioned for success and for supporting positive outcomes. This course reviews best practices in documentation, the use of evidence-based tools, the dynamic terminal diagnosis, and special situations with specific documentation requirements.
The clinical record is the most reliable source of information in ongoing medical care and quality improvement, defense of claims, and any legal proceedings. Unfortunately, documentation frequently omits significant parts of the care and efforts of the hospice team. Complete and accurate documentation can support positive outcomes for the patient, the organization, and the clinician. Interdisciplinary team members with a strong understanding of the purpose and use of the clinical record and required documentation are better positioned for success and for supporting positive outcomes. This course reviews best practices in documentation, the use of evidence-based tools, the dynamic terminal diagnosis, and special situations with specific documentation requirements.
Hospice Comprehensive Assessment and Plan of Care
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC
Hospice Comprehensive Assessment and Plan of Care
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Video Runtime: 35 Minutes; Learning Assessment Time: 26 Minutes
The hospice comprehensive assessment is the first step in patient-centered care. By completing a focused assessment with all of the appropriate elements, the hospice interdisciplinary team member can work with the patient and family to support positive outcomes. This course reviews Medicare requirements for a comprehensive assessment, including elements, frequency, and what and how to document. Additionally, appropriate quantifiable tools will be discussed. From the comprehensive assessment, the interdisciplinary team members will develop a patient-centered plan of care that will serve as a road map for all visits. This plan should include measurable goals and interventions that support meeting those goals. As the patient condition changes, the plan of care will need to be updated. These two components--the comprehensive assessment and the plan of care--form the basis of all hospice care and services. By understanding these tools, team members can demonstrate following the standards of care and best practices, and more importantly, achieving positive and patient-driven outcomes.
The hospice comprehensive assessment is the first step in patient-centered care. By completing a focused assessment with all of the appropriate elements, the hospice interdisciplinary team member can work with the patient and family to support positive outcomes. This course reviews Medicare requirements for a comprehensive assessment, including elements, frequency, and what and how to document. Additionally, appropriate quantifiable tools will be discussed. From the comprehensive assessment, the interdisciplinary team members will develop a patient-centered plan of care that will serve as a road map for all visits. This plan should include measurable goals and interventions that support meeting those goals. As the patient condition changes, the plan of care will need to be updated. These two components--the comprehensive assessment and the plan of care--form the basis of all hospice care and services. By understanding these tools, team members can demonstrate following the standards of care and best practices, and more importantly, achieving positive and patient-driven outcomes.
Understanding and Maximizing Your Role as a Hospice Case Manager
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC
Understanding and Maximizing Your Role as a Hospice Case Manager
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Video Runtime: 36 Minutes; Learning Assessment Time: 24 Minutes
The hospice registered nurse case manager (RNCM) has several responsibilities beyond the direct care of the patient. The responsibilities of this role are often poorly understood. This course will review the many roles and responsibilities according to regulatory requirements and best practices. Evidence-based communication methods will be discussed, with particular attention to care transitions. Clinical time management strategies will also be presented. Comprehensive assessment and care plan development, care coordination and collaboration, and oversight of all care and services provided to the patient will be reviewed, with the goal of helping the RNCM to increase professionalism, improve outcomes, and increase patient and family satisfaction.
The hospice registered nurse case manager (RNCM) has several responsibilities beyond the direct care of the patient. The responsibilities of this role are often poorly understood. This course will review the many roles and responsibilities according to regulatory requirements and best practices. Evidence-based communication methods will be discussed, with particular attention to care transitions. Clinical time management strategies will also be presented. Comprehensive assessment and care plan development, care coordination and collaboration, and oversight of all care and services provided to the patient will be reviewed, with the goal of helping the RNCM to increase professionalism, improve outcomes, and increase patient and family satisfaction.
Hospice Discharge and Revocation
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC
Hospice Discharge and Revocation
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Video Runtime: 17 Minutes; Learning Assessment Time: 16 Minutes
There is a lot of confusion regarding the hospice discharge and revocation. When is it a discharge, and when is it a revocation? What forms are needed for each? What conditions are required for each? This course reviews the regulations governing both discharges and revocations, the forms required for each, and the role of the hospice interdisciplinary team member in the process. At the end of this course, team members should feel confident in providing education to patients and families and in completing all of the appropriate documentation.
There is a lot of confusion regarding the hospice discharge and revocation. When is it a discharge, and when is it a revocation? What forms are needed for each? What conditions are required for each? This course reviews the regulations governing both discharges and revocations, the forms required for each, and the role of the hospice interdisciplinary team member in the process. At the end of this course, team members should feel confident in providing education to patients and families and in completing all of the appropriate documentation.
Managing Complaints and Grievances
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC
Managing Complaints and Grievances
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Video Runtime: 21 Minutes
Complaints and grievances can be a source of frustration, and as a result, there is a tendency to quickly resolve or completely ignore this negative feedback. This course looks at the value of this feedback and how it can contribute to increased quality of care, higher patient/family satisfaction, and personal and professional growth. Despite the positives, there are barriers to complaints and the complaint process. This course also looks at how to encourage, receive, and manage complaints, including turning a negative into a positive experience.
Complaints and grievances can be a source of frustration, and as a result, there is a tendency to quickly resolve or completely ignore this negative feedback. This course looks at the value of this feedback and how it can contribute to increased quality of care, higher patient/family satisfaction, and personal and professional growth. Despite the positives, there are barriers to complaints and the complaint process. This course also looks at how to encourage, receive, and manage complaints, including turning a negative into a positive experience.
Taking Care of Yourself and Your Team
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC
Taking Care of Yourself and Your Team
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Video Runtime: 30 Minutes
Hospice and palliative care team members give a lot of themselves to care for others. Unfortunately, giving so much can come at a high personal cost. The good news is that it is possible to avoid the negative consequences of compassion fatigue and burnout through proper self-care. This course reviews the signs and symptoms to watch for and constructive ways to avoid or manage stress and fatigue. Using simple techniques that can be incorporated into your daily routine, it is possible to build resilience and continue to do the work you love. This course also reviews how to help team members who may be experiencing these negative consequences.
Hospice and palliative care team members give a lot of themselves to care for others. Unfortunately, giving so much can come at a high personal cost. The good news is that it is possible to avoid the negative consequences of compassion fatigue and burnout through proper self-care. This course reviews the signs and symptoms to watch for and constructive ways to avoid or manage stress and fatigue. Using simple techniques that can be incorporated into your daily routine, it is possible to build resilience and continue to do the work you love. This course also reviews how to help team members who may be experiencing these negative consequences.
The Admissions Process: Informed Consent
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC
The Admissions Process: Informed Consent
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Video Runtime: 15 Minutes
We make decisions based on the information we have at the time. Providing patients and their representatives with accurate information during the admission process is an important responsibility because it will drive their decision-making throughout the course of care. Properly informing patients and their representatives of what they are signing or agreeing to can help prevent unnecessary costs to the patient, the hospice, and the Medicare program. This course reviews the medical definition of informed consent and the implications of that definition for hospices.
We make decisions based on the information we have at the time. Providing patients and their representatives with accurate information during the admission process is an important responsibility because it will drive their decision-making throughout the course of care. Properly informing patients and their representatives of what they are signing or agreeing to can help prevent unnecessary costs to the patient, the hospice, and the Medicare program. This course reviews the medical definition of informed consent and the implications of that definition for hospices.
- The Admissions Process: Informed Consent
- The Admissions Process: The Hospice Medicare Election
- The Admissions Process: Conveying of Charges
The Admissions Process: Conveying of Charges
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC
The Admissions Process: Conveying of Charges
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Video Runtime: 13 Minutes
Patients and their representatives have a right to be informed of any financial liability related to their care and treatment. Patients are informed about this on admission and throughout the course of care, both verbally and in writing. This course examines the circumstances when a hospice provider would be required to provide this notice, and the appropriate documentation tools to do this. We will also review who should receive this notification and how, who can sign, and what to do if a patient or their representative refuses to sign.
Patients and their representatives have a right to be informed of any financial liability related to their care and treatment. Patients are informed about this on admission and throughout the course of care, both verbally and in writing. This course examines the circumstances when a hospice provider would be required to provide this notice, and the appropriate documentation tools to do this. We will also review who should receive this notification and how, who can sign, and what to do if a patient or their representative refuses to sign.
- The Admissions Process: Informed Consent
- The Admissions Process: The Hospice Medicare Election
- The Admissions Process: Conveying of Charges
Emergency Preparedness Rule for Home Care and Hospice Administrators
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC
Emergency Preparedness Rule for Home Care and Hospice Administrators
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Video Runtime: 44 Minutes; Learning Assessment Time: 28 Minutes
On November 15, 2017, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services implemented new emergency preparedness requirements as a condition of participating in the Medicare program. This new rule affects 17 provider types, including home health and hospice. The new requirements are divided into four core elements: (1) risk assessment and emergency plan, (2) policies and procedures, (3) communication plan, and (4) training and testing. As a leader within a health care organization, the administrator must protect patients and team members from harm during an emergency and ensure continuity of operations. This course reviews the requirements of the Emergency Preparedness Rule and the administrator's roles and responsibilities to guide the organization successfully through emergency planning and disaster mitigation.
On November 15, 2017, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services implemented new emergency preparedness requirements as a condition of participating in the Medicare program. This new rule affects 17 provider types, including home health and hospice. The new requirements are divided into four core elements: (1) risk assessment and emergency plan, (2) policies and procedures, (3) communication plan, and (4) training and testing. As a leader within a health care organization, the administrator must protect patients and team members from harm during an emergency and ensure continuity of operations. This course reviews the requirements of the Emergency Preparedness Rule and the administrator's roles and responsibilities to guide the organization successfully through emergency planning and disaster mitigation.
Emergency Preparedness Rule for Home Care and Hospice
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC
Emergency Preparedness Rule for Home Care and Hospice
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and patient education—anytime, anywhere—with video instruction from
recognized industry experts.
Video Runtime: 29 Minutes; Learning Assessment Time: 23 Minutes
On November 15, 2017, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services implemented new emergency preparedness requirements as a condition of participating in the Medicare program. This new rule affects 17 provider types, including home health and hospice. The new requirements are divided into four core elements, including (1) risk assessment and emergency plan, (2) policies and procedures, (3) communication plan, and (4) training and testing. As a team member, each of us has a role to play in assuring patient and team member safety, and in meeting this new rule. This course reviews the new Emergency Preparedness requirement, the four core elements, and the individual responsibilities of team members in an emergency.
On November 15, 2017, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services implemented new emergency preparedness requirements as a condition of participating in the Medicare program. This new rule affects 17 provider types, including home health and hospice. The new requirements are divided into four core elements, including (1) risk assessment and emergency plan, (2) policies and procedures, (3) communication plan, and (4) training and testing. As a team member, each of us has a role to play in assuring patient and team member safety, and in meeting this new rule. This course reviews the new Emergency Preparedness requirement, the four core elements, and the individual responsibilities of team members in an emergency.
QAPI in Home Care and Hospice: Setting Higher Standards
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC
QAPI in Home Care and Hospice: Setting Higher Standards
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Video Runtime: 41 Minutes
A meaningful Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) program is a Medicare condition of participation for hospices. This means it is required in order to participate in the Medicare program. But, even without this requirement, a strong QAPI program is in the best interest of health care providers and the patients and families they serve. Performance improvement projects are designed to improve services, patient outcomes, and caregiver satisfaction. Each team member has a role in this important program. This course reviews the five elements of an effective QAPI program and provides examples for clinicians and other team members to use when developing and participating in performance improvement projects.
Managing Difficult Conversations at the End of Life
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC
Managing Difficult Conversations at the End of Life
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Video Runtime: 47 Minutes
Some important conversations are just hard, and many clinicians do not feel prepared to cover tough topics such as death and dying, suicide, fears, grief, and many others. Addressing patients' and families' thoughts and concerns about the consequences of a life-limiting illness requires a specific skill-set. This course provides information and tools to help the clinician gain comfort with these difficult conversations. Whether engaging in or facilitating these conversations, end-of-life clinicians have an important role. Case studies will be reviewed, and patient and family perspectives will be examined. Additionally, the role of bias and assumptions will be explored. Finally, this course will review professional growth through experience, reflection, and analysis of hard conversations.
Advance Directives: Terminology, Elements, and the Role of the Clinician
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC
Advance Directives: Terminology, Elements, and the Role of the Clinician
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Video Runtime: 50 Minutes
Written advance directives are an opportunity for an individual to communicate their wishes and preferences for care at the end-of-life. Without these documents, it may be left to family or friends to make decisions that they "think" the person would have wanted. This can be challenging for many reasons, not the least of which can be conflicting opinions among loved ones. This course takes a deeper look at the complex terminology, long history, and forced evolution of advance directives. Significant court cases will be reviewed for their impact on decision-making at the end-of-life. Information will be provided regarding how to choose a health care surrogate, what to include in a living will, and what to do when directives are completed.
Identifying, Communicating, & Documenting Patient Change in Condition
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC and Tina Marrelli, MSN, MA, RN, FAAN
Identifying, Communicating, & Documenting Patient Change in Condition
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Video Runtime: 41 Minutes; Learning Assessment Runtime: 12 Minutes
This course provides team members with the fundamental framework about effectively identifying, communicating, and documentation a change in a patient's condition or status. One fundamental standard in home care and hospice is that the physician has a unique and multifaceted role in regards to orders, care, and the treatment plan. Care and orders are based on the patient's care needs and findings, usually at the initial assessment. As patient's care and status improve, decline, or otherwise change, physicians are notified and the plan of care may change, based on orders. These processes are a part of the care planning, nursing or problem-solving cycle. There are a number of standards of practice, best practices, and regulations about these components of care and this course provides examples and key strategies for effectively addressing a patient change in condition.
This course provides team members with the fundamental framework about effectively identifying, communicating, and documentation a change in a patient's condition or status. One fundamental standard in home care and hospice is that the physician has a unique and multifaceted role in regards to orders, care, and the treatment plan. Care and orders are based on the patient's care needs and findings, usually at the initial assessment. As patient's care and status improve, decline, or otherwise change, physicians are notified and the plan of care may change, based on orders. These processes are a part of the care planning, nursing or problem-solving cycle. There are a number of standards of practice, best practices, and regulations about these components of care and this course provides examples and key strategies for effectively addressing a patient change in condition.
Fundamentals of Chronic Condition Management
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC and Tina Marrelli, MSN, MA, RN, FAAN
Fundamentals of Chronic Condition Management
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Video Runtime: 50 Minutes; Learning Assessment Runtime: 28 Minutes
Fundamentals of Chronic Condition Management will prepare clinicians to form a successful partnership with their patients who are managing complex health conditions on a daily basis. This course provides an overview of chronic condition management in the United States and how it has changed over time. Chronic condition management models will be reviewed, with emphasis on patient self-management. This course provides practical tips and tools to help the patient and clinician map out a plan and successfully navigate that plan to healthier living with managed conditions.
Fundamentals of Chronic Condition Management will prepare clinicians to form a successful partnership with their patients who are managing complex health conditions on a daily basis. This course provides an overview of chronic condition management in the United States and how it has changed over time. Chronic condition management models will be reviewed, with emphasis on patient self-management. This course provides practical tips and tools to help the patient and clinician map out a plan and successfully navigate that plan to healthier living with managed conditions.
Coaching and Counseling: Tips for Success
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC and Tina Marrelli, MSN, MA, RN, FAAN
Coaching and Counseling: Tips for Success
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Video Runtime: 46 Minutes; Learning Assessment Runtime: 21 Minutes
In a perfect world, everyone would complete their jobs flawlessly and without any management intervention or monitoring. The good news is that the skills of coaching and counseling are key to success in all organizations and that effective skills can be modeled and learned. This course provides the fundamentals of effective coaching and counseling, with strategies for beginner and experienced managers. Examples, role-playing, the answer to "What do I do next when this coaching is not working?" and more are addressed in this course. Taught in a collaborative and practical manner, this course provides the how-to needed for managers and others to help achieve personal, program, and organizational goals.
In a perfect world, everyone would complete their jobs flawlessly and without any management intervention or monitoring. The good news is that the skills of coaching and counseling are key to success in all organizations and that effective skills can be modeled and learned. This course provides the fundamentals of effective coaching and counseling, with strategies for beginner and experienced managers. Examples, role-playing, the answer to "What do I do next when this coaching is not working?" and more are addressed in this course. Taught in a collaborative and practical manner, this course provides the how-to needed for managers and others to help achieve personal, program, and organizational goals.
Legal Implications in Nursing Documentation
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC
Legal Implications in Nursing Documentation
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Video Runtime: 16 Minutes; Learning Assessment Time: 14 Minutes
Nursing documentation is the primary evidence that a nurse followed the standards of care and provides the nurse with credibility in a malpractice claim. This course reviews the legal implications of documentation and common errors found in clinical records. Examples of incorrect charting will be reviewed with appropriate alternative ways to document findings. This course also discusses patient-centric documentation to support quality care. Through appropriate and strong documentation, the nurse is better positioned to support following the patient's plan of care and to defend against a malpractice claim.
Nursing documentation is the primary evidence that a nurse followed the standards of care and provides the nurse with credibility in a malpractice claim. This course reviews the legal implications of documentation and common errors found in clinical records. Examples of incorrect charting will be reviewed with appropriate alternative ways to document findings. This course also discusses patient-centric documentation to support quality care. Through appropriate and strong documentation, the nurse is better positioned to support following the patient's plan of care and to defend against a malpractice claim.
Fraud, Waste, and Abuse: Fundamentals of Compliance in Home Health and Hospice
Presented by Cathleen Armato, RN, CHC
Fraud, Waste, and Abuse: Fundamentals of Compliance in Home Health and Hospice
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and patient education—anytime, anywhere—with video instruction from
recognized industry experts.
Video Runtime: 31 Minutes; Learning Assessment Time: 27 Minutes
26% of the national budget is spent on Medicare, Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). The National Health Care Anti-Fraud Association (NHCAA) estimates that our nation loses tens of billions of dollars each year due to health care fraud. This course will review fraud, waste, and abuse and how providers and their employees can participate in compliance efforts to stem the flow of inappropriate payments and preserve these programs for our future. The course will review rules and laws governing home health and hospice, risk areas for home health and hospice, and proactive steps employers and employees can take to remain in compliance with program requirements.
26% of the national budget is spent on Medicare, Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). The National Health Care Anti-Fraud Association (NHCAA) estimates that our nation loses tens of billions of dollars each year due to health care fraud. This course will review fraud, waste, and abuse and how providers and their employees can participate in compliance efforts to stem the flow of inappropriate payments and preserve these programs for our future. The course will review rules and laws governing home health and hospice, risk areas for home health and hospice, and proactive steps employers and employees can take to remain in compliance with program requirements.
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