LeadingAge Wisconsin's Synergy networking group met July 8 for another engaging session focused on clinical issues impacting skilled nursing providers across the state.

We are especially pleased to share that Rachel Royston, clinical nurse consultant at Illuminus, has graciously volunteered to serve as Synergy co-chair. Rachel has been an active and thoughtful contributor to the group, and we are grateful for her willingness to share her time and expertise in this leadership role. Her commitment to supporting her fellow members will help ensure Synergy continues to be a valuable forum for collaboration, learning and peer support.

We also extend our sincere appreciation to Jen Brieske, NHA, of Morrow Home, for her continued leadership as co-chair. Jen's dedication and guidance have helped make Synergy a trusted resource for clinical professionals throughout Wisconsin. We are fortunate to have both Rachel and Jen leading this important member group.

The meeting featured an engaging presentation from Jessica Radtke, bureau director of nursing home resident care, and Juli Brandt, deputy bureau director of nursing home resident care, who shared practical guidance on the complex topic of resident intimacy and sexuality. Their presentation encouraged thoughtful discussion about balancing residents' rights, dignity, autonomy and quality of life with providers' responsibilities for safety and care.

One of the key messages from the presentation was that there is no single form or checklist that determines a resident's ability to consent. Instead, providers should focus on three guiding principles: consent, assessment and care planning. Brandt encouraged attendees to evaluate situations by asking three fundamental questions: What did they know? When did they know it? What did they do about it?

The presenters also discussed practical approaches to assessment, including gathering a resident's social history, observing behaviors and routines, reviewing relevant medical information and, when appropriate and with consent, seeking input from medical providers and family members or other legal decision-makers. They shared additional resources, including guidance from the Wisconsin Guardianship Manual and relevant case law, to help providers navigate these complex situations. As Brandt noted in her follow-up message to attendees, these cases rarely have simple answers. While providers often work in "the gray," a thoughtful, person-centered assessment process can help guide sound clinical decision-making.

The group also held a candid discussion about members' recent skilled nursing survey experiences. Several participants expressed concerns about inconsistencies in how scope and severity are assigned during surveys, noting that similar situations can receive different interpretations both within Wisconsin and compared with other states. The conversation gave members an opportunity to compare experiences, exchange practical insights and support one another while also helping LeadingAge Wisconsin better understand the challenges members are facing. We will continue to bring these concerns forward in discussions with the Department in hopes of improving consistency in survey practices.

Members also were reminded that LeadingAge Wisconsin is here to support them. Questions related to surveys or requests for clinical assistance can be directed to our clinical support partners at LeadingAge Minnesota by emailing clinicalsupport@leadingagewi.org.

Thank you to everyone who participated in the July Synergy meeting and contributed to the thoughtful discussions. We especially thank Rachel Royston and Jen Brieske for their leadership and look forward to continuing these important conversations at future Synergy meetings.