Education (STAR Kit)

Emergency Preparedness Education for In-Home Caregivers

In 2006, PHS conducted a survey to assess in-home caregiver emergency preparedness. The survey included assessments of caregivers’ essential skills and knowledge relating to equipment, oxygen safety and use, emergency resuscitation bag function and use, and emergency response procedures. While caregivers were found to be skilled in routine daily care, there was a demonstrated need for additional education and training, particularly in oxygen use and safety.

As a result, PHS developed the STAR Kit, education materials and tools designed to enhance patient safety in the home. The kit includes informational DVDs, safety checklists and reminders, troubleshooting guides, equipment tags, and an emergency action plan. Training is provided and the STAR Kit is given free of charge to PHS families, home care providers, and referring physicians. The kit has also become a part of the PHS education program.

A follow-up survey in 2007 demonstrated marked improvement, but PHS believed even more could be done. Elements of the program were adjusted, and survey results indicated even greater improvement. With the implementation of the STAR kit, there has been an overall improvement in all five of the areas assessed in the survey – equipment assessment, emergency backup equipment/batteries, oxygen safety, emergency AMBU bag, and emergency patient response.

NOTE: Data below demonstrates results from patient families in our Minneapolis office. The STAR program is currently being evaluated for use in all other markets.