ComPASS: A software tool for Care Preference Assessment of Satisfaction in Skilled Nursing

Abstract The results of the Compass project demonstrate both the feasibility and significant usefulness of digital resident preference assessments for enhancing person-centered care in nursing home communities. Using the scientifically validated Preferences for Everyday Living Inventory (PELI), Compass-21 was created, consisting of 21 targeted questions—16 aligned with MDS Section F and five additional high-priority preferences chosen by staff after reviewing the remaining 56 PELI questions. Focus groups and formative research with administrators and frontline staff revealed that existing paper-based and EHR systems were not dynamic enough and were poorly updated for sharing preference information, which hindered truly individualized care. Compass-21 enabled systematic, real-time documentation and sharing of residents’ preferences and satisfaction. In four nursing home communities, 72 eligible residents (with a Brief Inventory for Mental Status score of 12 or higher) completed assessments of their most important preferences and provided a satisfaction rating for how well each preference was met. The tool produced reports used in care planning meetings, facilitating targeted discussion and improvement efforts. A survey of the reports given to care staff (nursing, social work, activities), family, and residents showed that the reports were helpful (3.9/5.0), understandable (4.44/5.0), and useful (4.16/5.0). Statistical analyses examined the change in preference-congruent care by comparing baseline and 30-day follow-up using repeated measures ANOVA. These results showed positive increases in the number of important preferences that were met, providing a strong basis for expansion and wider adoption across communities.