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About Us
Research
Research, it is often said, is where medicine hits the road. At Misericordia, we take research very seriously because it allows us to study ways to improve the quality of life of our patients and residents.
Our researchers study everything from improving vision for the elderly to post-operative complications. As well as improving quality of life, we aim to prevent unnecessary hospitalizations and prescribe safer medications.
Before any projects begin, though, our research review committee approves research proposals. The committee addresses any ethical concerns and ensures the research projects are in accordance with Misericordia’s faith-based values before granting approval.
Vision Care Services in Long-Term Care: A Feasibility Study
Currently in Manitoba, there is no routine screening of vision conducted at the time of admission to a long-term care facility or on a regular basis. Visual impairment increases with age leading to substantial changes in the older adult’s ability to manage their activities of daily living. Research suggests a close link between visual impairment and falls.
Sandy Bell, Misericordia's Director of Patient Safety, Quality and Education is leading this study with principal investigator Dr. Pamela Hawranik, University of Manitoba, to determine the feasibility of establishing a vision-screening program for residents in long-term care facilities.
The objectives:
- To identify the prevalence of vision disorders in older adults who are residents of a long-term care facility.
- To test the reliability and validity of a vision screening kit in identifying vision loss in older adults who are residents of long-term care facilities.
- To determine the staff satisfaction with the use of the vision screening kit and the screening and testing process.
- To compare the prevalence of falls and various quality of life vision characteristics before and after treatment.
Read the Focus on Falls Prevention Project Synopsis.
Read Testing the Effectiveness of a Vision Care Program on Falls, Fracture and Quality of Life Poster.
Read Focus on Falls Prevention: A Patient Safety Initiative Poster.
For additional information, please call our Focus on Falls Prevention hotline at 204-788-8488.
