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Title: Evaluation of an Established In-Home, Palliative Care Program and its Impact on Improving Patient Health Outcomes.
Creator: Guillaume, Keishan, Hain, Debra, Kennedy, Karen, Florida Atlantic University, Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing
Abstract/Description: Background and Review of Literature: Palliative care has a high potential to increase quality of life for patients with serious illnesses through symptom management and providing care and support. There are various settings and organizations where individuals can receive such care. Still, many people prefer staying at home in a familiar environment. The problem is that palliative care programs should be effective to justify the resources invested and maintain patients' quality of life....
Show moreBackground and Review of Literature: Palliative care has a high potential to increase quality of life for patients with serious illnesses through symptom management and providing care and support. There are various settings and organizations where individuals can receive such care. Still, many people prefer staying at home in a familiar environment. The problem is that palliative care programs should be effective to justify the resources invested and maintain patients' quality of life. Moreover, as literature review shows they should involve advanced practice registered nurses (APRN) to achieve better outcomes since these specialists have considerable skills and competencies, but their potential is not used to the fullest. Purpose: The current DNP project is aimed at evaluating the palliative care program provided by Prospero Health to confirm its compliance with the goals of adequate care. Moreover, the project assesses the strengths and weaknesses of the project, identifies barriers to its implementation, and assesses the effectiveness in a decrease of hospitalizations. Another goal is to provide recommendations to improve the performance of the Prospero Health program based on the evaluation results.
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Date Issued: 2022
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/faudnp000063
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Evaluation of Geriatric Education and Interprofessional Collaboration in Healthcare Practice: Identifying Opportunities to Improve Care for Older Adults.
Creator: Jarrin, Tatiana, Florida Atlantic University, Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing
Abstract/Description: Background Interprofessional collaboration and knowledge of how to care for older adults are important components of high-quality care for a multitude of healthcare disciplines. The aging population presents unique challenges to healthcare professionals, and education on how to care for older adults can equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to provide optimal care. Florida Atlantic University’s (FAU) Office of Interprofessional Education and Practice (IPE&P) designed a Foundational...
Show moreBackground Interprofessional collaboration and knowledge of how to care for older adults are important components of high-quality care for a multitude of healthcare disciplines. The aging population presents unique challenges to healthcare professionals, and education on how to care for older adults can equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to provide optimal care. Florida Atlantic University’s (FAU) Office of Interprofessional Education and Practice (IPE&P) designed a Foundational Level Program which includes the Canvas modules for IPEP 2022-2023 and the Senior Adult Geriatric Educator (SAGE) visits. This program is an example of an academic initiative that aims to improve interprofessional collaboration among healthcare professionals regarding education and assessment of the aging population. Aim This program evaluation aimed to examine the current SAGE Mentor program that is presented through Florida Atlantic University’s Office of Interprofessional Education and Practice and to evaluate whether students who participated experienced enhanced competency upon completion of this Foundational Level Program.
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Date Issued: 2023
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/faudnp000089
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Evaluation of Management Adherence in Afro-Caribbean Pediatric Patients with Diabetes.
Creator: Colimon, Iseberte, Bulfin, Susan, Florida Atlantic University, Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing
Abstract/Description: Purpose: This project was implemented to address and improve the need for management adherence among the Afro-Caribbean pediatric population with Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes (T1D) and (T2D). Background and Problem: Over the past 5 years, there has been an increased number of children diagnosed with diabetes. Particularly, one of the problems being faced by Haitians and other Afro-Caribbean patients with chronic illnesses, is poor management adherence due to lack of culturally congruent...
Show morePurpose: This project was implemented to address and improve the need for management adherence among the Afro-Caribbean pediatric population with Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes (T1D) and (T2D). Background and Problem: Over the past 5 years, there has been an increased number of children diagnosed with diabetes. Particularly, one of the problems being faced by Haitians and other Afro-Caribbean patients with chronic illnesses, is poor management adherence due to lack of culturally congruent education. Additionally, the lack of education seen in patients with diabetes is correlated with difficulties to adapt and manage the condition properly. Method: Each participant received education that was tailored to the Afro-Caribbean culture and in their preferred language. Summary of diabetes self-care Activities (SDSCA) score and time in range values were assessed pre intervention and post intervention. A paired sample t-test was conducted by this Doctor of Nursing Practice student to assess the changes from pretest to posttest. A p-value of less than 0.05 was required for statistical significance. Results: More than 75% of the participants were educated with culturally congruent teachings that were tailored to the Afro-Caribbean culture. Improvement in SDSCA scores and TIR was also demonstrated. SDSCA p<.001 and TIR p=0.008. In addition, more than 75% of the participants demonstrated improved adherence to blood glucose monitoring consistency which was statically significant. Conclusion: The effectiveness of this project was evaluated by the outcomes of the participants’ post intervention. Findings from this project demonstrated that providing culturally congruent education to patients was successful at improving diabetes home management.
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Date Issued: 2021
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/faudnp000036
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Evaluation of the Use of Community Mental Health Resources to Decrease Depression Scores in Adolescent Patients.
Creator: Youngblood, Brittany, Bulfin, Susan, Florida Atlantic University, Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing
Abstract/Description: This paper described a quality improvement project with a goal of decreasing depression symptoms through the use of specified community mental health resources. The aim of this project was to decrease depression scores for pediatric patients by offering information on available community resources. This was achieved by providing an evidence-based pamphlet with community-based mental health resources to patients who scored high on the depression screening. This intervention addressed an...
Show moreThis paper described a quality improvement project with a goal of decreasing depression symptoms through the use of specified community mental health resources. The aim of this project was to decrease depression scores for pediatric patients by offering information on available community resources. This was achieved by providing an evidence-based pamphlet with community-based mental health resources to patients who scored high on the depression screening. This intervention addressed an identified gap at the site concerning mental health services for depressed adolescents. Objectives included providing patients who screen positive for depression the community resource list, obtaining decreased scores on the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) depression screening 6 weeks post intervention, and return visits for follow up appointments for re-assessment. All adolescents ages 12-18 who visited the pediatrician’s office from June 2, 2021, to July 7, 2021, for an annual well visit or mental health complaint were offered the PHQ-9 screening. Patients who scored 5 or higher were invited to participate in the project for a total of 20 participants. The 3 objectives for this project were not met. Providers demonstrated low participation and adequate follow-up was not provided resulting in lack of the PHQ-9 rescreening. Recommendations for future efforts to increase to decrease depression symptoms would be to determine barriers to providers recommending community resources and incorporating modifications to the project based on provider identified barriers. A longer period (such as 6 months) could also assist in increasing provider participation and patients’ use of community resources.
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Date Issued: 2021
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/faudnp000035
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Evidence-Based Program Evaluation of a Primary Care Weight Loss Plan.
Creator: Mowett-Fuller, Joy L., Wisdom-Chambers, Karen, Florida Atlantic University, Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing
Abstract/Description: This evidence-based program evaluation assesses the effectiveness and patient adherence to a structured weight loss intervention at a local primary care clinic. The program targeted 21 adults, aged 27-60, with BMI ≥ 27 kg/m², many of whom faced cardiovascular risks. Over nine months, participants engaged in a program combining semaglutide injections, dietary guidance, behavioral counseling, and regular physical activity. Baseline and follow-up measures at three, six, and nine months evaluated...
Show moreThis evidence-based program evaluation assesses the effectiveness and patient adherence to a structured weight loss intervention at a local primary care clinic. The program targeted 21 adults, aged 27-60, with BMI ≥ 27 kg/m², many of whom faced cardiovascular risks. Over nine months, participants engaged in a program combining semaglutide injections, dietary guidance, behavioral counseling, and regular physical activity. Baseline and follow-up measures at three, six, and nine months evaluated outcomes alongside self-reported quality of life assessments. The results demonstrated significant reductions in BMI and weight (p < 0.01, CI: 95%), with participants reporting increased confidence and self-efficacy. The findings underscore the effectiveness of a nurse-led, compassionate primary care approach to weight management. Recommendations include extending follow-up periods and integrating demographic considerations (education, race, culture) to enhance adherence and long-term success. This evaluation provides actionable insights for clinic and broader healthcare contexts, with plans for dissemination through faculty presentations, publications, and local and national conferences.
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Date Issued: 2024
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/faudnp000114
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Gaining Insight into the Experiences of Women with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) and Improving Outcomes.
Creator: Reyes, Margaret Mary, Hain, Debra, Bhatia, Padam, Florida Atlantic University, Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing
Date Issued: 2023
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/faudnp000102
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Gaining Insight into the Experiences of Women with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder and Improving Outcomes.
Creator: Reyes, Margaret M., Florida Atlantic University, Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing
Abstract/Description: Premenstrual symptoms have the potential to impact all women of reproductive age. Roughly 70-90% of women experience some level of premenstrual discomfort, while 3-8% experience the most severe, complex form, PMDD (Mishra, Elliot, and Marwaha, 2022). PMDD symptomatology is complex, and therefore overlaps with other diagnoses, which has complicated the diagnostic process. There is a growing body of evidence to support that PMDD has been misdiagnosed or disregarded, and stigmatized by providers...
Show morePremenstrual symptoms have the potential to impact all women of reproductive age. Roughly 70-90% of women experience some level of premenstrual discomfort, while 3-8% experience the most severe, complex form, PMDD (Mishra, Elliot, and Marwaha, 2022). PMDD symptomatology is complex, and therefore overlaps with other diagnoses, which has complicated the diagnostic process. There is a growing body of evidence to support that PMDD has been misdiagnosed or disregarded, and stigmatized by providers, and improvements are needed in both the education about the diagnostic process, as well as the diagnostic process itself. The purpose of this quality improvement project was to improve the quality of the assessment, diagnosis, and management of PMDD, and gain insight into the lived experiences from those living with the disorder as well as insight into the management of the disorder from clinicians. The populations of interest were menstruating females, age 18-45, documented history of mood instability or mood changes, in addition to treating clinicians at an outpatient psychiatric clinic. Practice changes that were implemented were as follows: implementation of the premenstrual symptoms screening tool (Appendix A) within the medical record; creation and distribution of informative/educational pamphlet/PDF for clinicians about PMDD diagnosis, assessment and treatment (Appendix B); creation and distribution of likert and open ended survey to measure perception of patients regarding diagnostic process, treatment and care overall; creation and distribution of likert and open ended survey to measure perception of clinicians regarding the use of the tool and how it affected their clinical decision making. Outcomes focused on screening practices and results, documentation in the medical record, engagement, and patient perception. Data was analyzed using clinical record reviews, interviews, Likert-type scales, and coding. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the population, and pre/post intervention changes. Relevant insight was gained on the knowledge gap and under recognition of Women's Health disorders such as PMDD and on screening practices. The project was successful in improving knowledge base of PMDD in both patients and clinicians. The limitations focused on patients’ engagement in the survey on follow up, as well as clinician engagement in the project overall. To further improve the diagnostic process, increase education and reduce stigma, future research may focus on improving engagement of clinicians and patients, and/or assessing current screening practices or treatment regimens for PMDD.
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Date Issued: 2023
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/faudnp000081
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Getting Physical with Back Pain.
Creator: Langley, Jessica, Gordon, Shirley C., Harvey, Kathi, Florida Atlantic University, Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing
Abstract/Description: Low back pain (LBP) can be debilitating and result in decreased mobility and reduced quality of life. This paper describes a quality improvement project focusing on managing LBP using an evidenced-based, multimodal approach. The multimodal approach included physical therapy combined with an analgesic and/or anti-inflammatory medication for pain that provide different mechanisms of action. The selected population were patients who presented with low back pain in a primary care setting. The...
Show moreLow back pain (LBP) can be debilitating and result in decreased mobility and reduced quality of life. This paper describes a quality improvement project focusing on managing LBP using an evidenced-based, multimodal approach. The multimodal approach included physical therapy combined with an analgesic and/or anti-inflammatory medication for pain that provide different mechanisms of action. The selected population were patients who presented with low back pain in a primary care setting. The participants attended physical therapy for four weeks while taking an individualized, prescribed medication regimen based on pain rating scores and LBP physical assessment. On the follow-up evaluation, all participants reported reduced pain and 67% demonstrated a decrease of three or more points on the Wong FACES Pain Rating Scale, an increase of five or more points on the Quality of Life Scale, and an increase of five or more points on the Back Pain Function Scale from pre to post intervention. The primary goal of this quality improvement project was to implement and evaluate an evidence-based, multimodal treatment approach to improve health outcomes for persons experiencing LBP. Multimodal LBP management lead to decreased pain, increased mobility, and an increase in the overall quality of life for patients.
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Date Issued: 2019
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00007539
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Hypertension Control Through Medications Adherence: A Quality Improvement Project Consisting of Self-monitoring, Patient Education, and Pill Box Reminders.
Creator: Robles, Elba, Chiang-Hanisko, Lenny, Campbell, Angela, Florida Atlantic University, Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing
Abstract/Description: This Quality Improvement Project (QIP) assessed the effect of a multi-component evidence-based (EB) medication adherence intervention to improve hypertension among adults 40 years and older at Annie L. Weaver Health Center, Florida. Participants received a pre and posttest using the Beliefs about Medicine Questionnaire (BMQ) and Adherence Starts with Knowledge-12 (ASK-12) questionnaires which helped design, guide, and infer the intervention effects on adherence. The intervention involved; (a)...
Show moreThis Quality Improvement Project (QIP) assessed the effect of a multi-component evidence-based (EB) medication adherence intervention to improve hypertension among adults 40 years and older at Annie L. Weaver Health Center, Florida. Participants received a pre and posttest using the Beliefs about Medicine Questionnaire (BMQ) and Adherence Starts with Knowledge-12 (ASK-12) questionnaires which helped design, guide, and infer the intervention effects on adherence. The intervention involved; (a) two designed patient educational sessions, 4-weeks apart, on definition of high blood pressure, causes and risk factors for hypertension, sign and symptoms of uncontrolled hypertension, the benefits of taking antihypertensive medications and adhering-aiding tools; (b) self-monitoring utilizing Omron blood pressure machine along with blood pressure and medications logs; and (c) pill-box reminders. Upon completion of this QIP, adherence rates improved by 100% and blood pressure (B/P) improved in three months.
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Date Issued: 2021
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/faudnp000039
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Hypertension: Improving Outcomes through Enrollment in a Walking Exercise Program.
Creator: Almonord, Bernice, Brennen, Marlene, Dorval, Julina T., Florida Atlantic University, Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing
Abstract/Description: Hypertension is a major health care challenge. Uncontrolled hypertension is a huge financial burden in the United States. Strict medication adherence and lifestyle modifications such as incorporating a low sodium diet and increasing daily aerobic physical activity have been proven to be effective in managing hypertension. However, uncontrollable hypertension continues to be one of the most leading causes of cardiovascular disease and death worldwide. When compared to other groups, Haitians...
Show moreHypertension is a major health care challenge. Uncontrolled hypertension is a huge financial burden in the United States. Strict medication adherence and lifestyle modifications such as incorporating a low sodium diet and increasing daily aerobic physical activity have been proven to be effective in managing hypertension. However, uncontrollable hypertension continues to be one of the most leading causes of cardiovascular disease and death worldwide. When compared to other groups, Haitians have a higher disproportionate risk of morbidity and mortality from chronic disease. The purpose of this quality improvement project was to evaluate the effectiveness of physical activity through a walking exercise program and hypertension self-management education on blood pressure in Haitian adults aged 35 to 84 diagnosed with hypertension in the primary care setting. The project was an 8-week online/remote walking exercise program designed to provide bi-weekly hypertension self-management education sessions (moderate-intensity physical activity, low salt diet management, and medication adherence teaching), weekly self-adjusted step goals, and weekly one-on-one physical activity nurse counseling via telephone/video teleconference. The study results showed that participants who were fully engaged in the walking exercise program were able to manage their blood pressure by increasing their physical activity level, adhering to a low sodium diet, and increasing medication adherence.
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Date Issued: 2020
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/faudnp000003
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Identifying Barriers and Facilitators to Medication Adherence Among Underserved Adults with Hypertension in Miami-Dade County.
Creator: Carry, Coeurlande, Darville, Simone, Kelly, Tracian, Florida Atlantic University, Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing
Abstract/Description: African American (AA) and Hispanic American (HA) adults with hypertension have a higher risk of developing stroke, heart disease, and diabetes and have higher mortality rates from related complications. In the United States, more than 50% of patients with chronic conditions do not take their medication as prescribed (Kelly et al., 2014). Nonadherence is known to contribute to complications and difficulties in managing chronic diseases like hypertension and increased morbidity and deaths ...
Show moreAfrican American (AA) and Hispanic American (HA) adults with hypertension have a higher risk of developing stroke, heart disease, and diabetes and have higher mortality rates from related complications. In the United States, more than 50% of patients with chronic conditions do not take their medication as prescribed (Kelly et al., 2014). Nonadherence is known to contribute to complications and difficulties in managing chronic diseases like hypertension and increased morbidity and deaths (Ashoorkhani et al., 2018). This paper intends to address hypertension among AA and HA adults at Community Health of South Florida Incorporated (CHI) in Miami-Dade County.
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Date Issued: 2020
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/faudnp000004
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Identifying Barriers to Self-Management and Medication Adherence in the Afro-Caribbean Aging Population with Hypertension.
Creator: Sainvil, Judith, Pritchard, Kyndall, Florida Atlantic University, Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing
Abstract/Description: Hypertension affects nearly half of all adults in the United States (US) or 108 million individuals, and one out of every four adults is affected (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2020). Furthermore, more than 30% of individuals with hypertension in the United States do not take their medication as directed, increasing the risks of stroke, heart disease, diabetes, and morbidity and death rates among Afro- Caribbean adults with HTN (CDC, 2020). Non-adherence is a leading cause...
Show moreHypertension affects nearly half of all adults in the United States (US) or 108 million individuals, and one out of every four adults is affected (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2020). Furthermore, more than 30% of individuals with hypertension in the United States do not take their medication as directed, increasing the risks of stroke, heart disease, diabetes, and morbidity and death rates among Afro- Caribbean adults with HTN (CDC, 2020). Non-adherence is a leading cause of health issues in the treatment of chronic disorders like hypertension. Furthermore, these negative consequences exacerbate preexisting health issues in disadvantaged communities, necessitating self-management and medication adherence improvements (Moss, 2019). This quality improvement (QI) initiative aims to enhance health outcomes for Afro-Caribbean individuals diagnosed with HTN at the Cora E. Braynon Family Health Center between 40 and 70. Barriers to non-adherence are a leading source of health problems and chronic illness management in HTN (CDC, 2020). According to Whelton (2017), self-care management also helps to reduce obstacles and injustice in high-stress or underprivileged populations. The following section presents a team learning to take control (TLC) approach that can offer bi-weekly sessions to improve patient blood pressure readings, sleeping patterns, pain control, communication, and eating habits (Still et al., 2018).
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Date Issued: 2021
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/faudnp000032
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Impact of a Telehealth-Based Program on Hospital Readmission, Patient Knowledge, and Self-Care Among Older Adults with Heart Failure.
Creator: Jacques, Elisee, Leavitt, Mary Ann, Durandis, Joseph, Florida Atlantic University, Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing
Abstract/Description: Heart failure (HF) is a global epidemic that affects older populations at an unprecedented rate. It is one of the leading causes of hospital readmission in patients 65 years and older. Although many strategies have been used to properly manage the disease, HF remains a complex condition due to several factors such as disease progression, comorbidities, inadequate patient knowledge, and non-adherence to the treatment plan. Despite the impact of HF on quality of life, morbidity, and mortality...
Show moreHeart failure (HF) is a global epidemic that affects older populations at an unprecedented rate. It is one of the leading causes of hospital readmission in patients 65 years and older. Although many strategies have been used to properly manage the disease, HF remains a complex condition due to several factors such as disease progression, comorbidities, inadequate patient knowledge, and non-adherence to the treatment plan. Despite the impact of HF on quality of life, morbidity, and mortality in older adults, they have been markedly underrepresented in most major cardiovascular trials. Besides the use of traditional methods for HF management, studies have shown that telehealth can be an effective strategy to provide the necessary education and assistance to patients, reducing the need for unnecessary ER visits. A quality improvement (QI) project involving 10 participants diagnosed with HF was implemented from June to September 2022. The aim of this project was to measure the effect of a telehealth-based HF program on HF knowledge, self-care adequacy, and hospital readmission among patients ≥ 65 years diagnosed with HF. To achieve this objective, a system including remote symptoms monitoring along with weekly education sessions on HF self-management was implemented. After using measurement tools (Dutch Heart Failure Knowledge Scale and Self-Care Heart Failure Index) and analyzing data, a statistically significant improvement (p< .001) in HF knowledge and self-care adequacy, and a decrease overall in hospital readmissions over a 3 month-period was noted. However, due to certain limitations such as small local sample size, unintended bias, and lack of diversity among participants, the results could not be generalized, and further experimental studies were warranted. Although we value the importance of telehealth, we strongly encouraged in-person visits for thorough physical examination, and we educated patients to identify red flags that warrant a visit to the emergency.
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Date Issued: 2022
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/faudnp000064
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Impact of Heart Failure Education Program on Haitian Older Adults with Heart Failure.
Creator: Cesar, Farah, Tappen, Ruth, Adonis-Rizzo, Tamara, Florida Atlantic University, Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing
Abstract/Description: Heart failure (HF) is a clinical syndrome with various manifestations (Groenewegen, Rutten, Mosterd, & Hoes, 2020). However, self-care for patients with complex illnesses, such as HF, can be very challenging. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC] (2020) reported that an estimated 6.2 million adults in the United States had HF. It is generally estimated that between 1% and 2% of adults in developed countries have HF (Groenewegen et al., 2020). Although important advances in...
Show moreHeart failure (HF) is a clinical syndrome with various manifestations (Groenewegen, Rutten, Mosterd, & Hoes, 2020). However, self-care for patients with complex illnesses, such as HF, can be very challenging. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC] (2020) reported that an estimated 6.2 million adults in the United States had HF. It is generally estimated that between 1% and 2% of adults in developed countries have HF (Groenewegen et al., 2020). Although important advances in managing HF were made before approximately 1990, improvements have been significant since that time (Choi et al., 2019). However, some patients with HF still struggle. The prognosis of HF remains poor for most patients. One estimate suggests 87%, 73%, 57%, and 35% survival rates at 1, 2, 5, and 10 years, respectively (Groenewegen et al., 2020). A radical treatment for HF is a heart transplant, but due to the shortage of donated organs, this option remains out of reach for most patients (McDonagh et al., 2021). Recent success in the transplantation of a porcine heart into a human recipient suggests that some HF patients may benefit from this procedure in the future, but today, patients diagnosed with HF may receive a heart transplant from a diseased human donor (Kotz, 2022).
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Date Issued: 2022
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/faudnp000069
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Implementation of a Community Prevention Program to Reduce Cardiovascular Risks.
Creator: Evans, Altavia, Hain, Debra, Walters, Debby, Florida Atlantic University, Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing
Abstract/Description: Cardiovascular disease is a serious health condition that affects the blood flow to and from the heart. It is currently one of the leading causes of death globally as it accounts for approximately 32% of deaths each year (WHO, 2021). In Palm Beach County, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death accounting for 23.7% of overall deaths (Palm Beach County, 2022). The risk for developing this disease increases when other comorbidities exist such as diabetes, hypertension,...
Show moreCardiovascular disease is a serious health condition that affects the blood flow to and from the heart. It is currently one of the leading causes of death globally as it accounts for approximately 32% of deaths each year (WHO, 2021). In Palm Beach County, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death accounting for 23.7% of overall deaths (Palm Beach County, 2022). The risk for developing this disease increases when other comorbidities exist such as diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, or an elevated Body Mass Index (BMI). With proper knowledge and lifestyle modifications, risks from complications are lowered. It is for this reason that a QI project was implemented, to see if a community prevention program (CPP) could help improve knowledge and behavior changes within a population. Overall, six participants completed the program, three males, and three females. Results showed that 83% of participants lowered their HgA1c while there was a 100% increase in blood pressure. Results also showed a decrease in BMI for 33% of participants, and an increase in BMI for 17% of participants. Overall cholesterol decreased by 66%. Based on the self-efficacy survey that participants took, it appeared that they were more confident and likely to identify healthy food choices and increase their aerobic exercise and activities. Although initial goals were not fully met, the implications of this project showed that a CPP can improve certain biomarkers that could help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. A longer period of time and larger sample size might yield much different results. It would also be beneficial to trend certain biomarkers such as BMI and blood pressure multiple times throughout the duration of the program to determine if a change occurs over a longer period.
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Date Issued: 2022
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/faudnp000075
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Implementation of a Postpartum Depression Screening Program to Increase Detection and Referral of Women Experiencing Postpartum Depression (PPD).
Creator: Eziafa, Chinye, Longo, Joy, Florida Atlantic University, Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing
Abstract/Description: Postpartum depression is a common and serious mental disorder seen in 10% to 20% of postpartum women. It is the most undiagnosed and undertreated condition in obstetrics. It can affect mother-infant bonding, the mother’s wellbeing, and the infant’s development. The aim of this project is to implement a postpartum depression (PPD) screening program that will include early screening and referral for treatment. This manuscript will describe the results of the project and the importance of early...
Show morePostpartum depression is a common and serious mental disorder seen in 10% to 20% of postpartum women. It is the most undiagnosed and undertreated condition in obstetrics. It can affect mother-infant bonding, the mother’s wellbeing, and the infant’s development. The aim of this project is to implement a postpartum depression (PPD) screening program that will include early screening and referral for treatment. This manuscript will describe the results of the project and the importance of early screening for PPD. A practice change for a focused outcome was implemented in a practice. This change included a new protocol on PPD screening. A ten-item Edinburg postnatal depression scale (EPDS) was used to screen every woman during the postpartum visit. Data was collected between June 2020 and September 2020. Thirty women visited the clinic for a postpartum check within the 3-month period. Twenty-eight (93.3%) were screened for PPD. One (4%) of the twenty-eight women was detected to have symptoms of PPD and 100% of those who were detected with symptoms were referred. Two women (6.7%) were not screened. Prior to implementation of the protocol, education was provided to staff, and the 22-item revised depression attitude questionnaire (R-DAQ) was administered pre and post education to evaluate the knowledge and attitude of the staff. The independent sample T- Test was used to analyze the knowledge of staff pre and post educational sessions. The results showed an increase in knowledge, but it was not statistically significant. Also, the implementation of the practice change in the project site is still under assessment. In conclusion, implementing EPDS into practice will help improve PPD screening, early detection and treatment of PPD.
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Date Issued: 2020
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/faudnp000005
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Implementation of Mobile Health Applications Safety Plan (MHASP) to Reduce the Risk of Suicide.
Creator: Joseph, Myrbelle F., Hershorin, Tracian Kelly, Florida Atlantic University, Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing
Abstract/Description: Suicide is one of the most serious public health issues in the US today. Suicide is of particular interest because it is the tenth leading cause of death for all ages in the United States, the second leading cause of death in ages 10-34, and the fourth leading cause of death in ages 35-54 (CDC, 2020). Despite national goals to lower the suicide rate, several recent reports have documented a steady increase in suicide rates in recent years. Suicide rates continues to rise in almost every state...
Show moreSuicide is one of the most serious public health issues in the US today. Suicide is of particular interest because it is the tenth leading cause of death for all ages in the United States, the second leading cause of death in ages 10-34, and the fourth leading cause of death in ages 35-54 (CDC, 2020). Despite national goals to lower the suicide rate, several recent reports have documented a steady increase in suicide rates in recent years. Suicide rates continues to rise in almost every state. The purpose of this manuscript is to describe a quality improvement project (QI) that was carried out to increase knowledge and use of a Mobile Health Applications Safety Plan (MHASP) to reduce the risk of suicide. The need for this project was identified at an outpatient clinic where patients at high risk for suicide were not receiving printed completed safety plan or enhanced instruction. Several studies identified potential barriers to adherence including complexity of treatment, low health literacy, and persistent symptoms while other studies displayed the positive impact of enhanced instruction on reducing the risks of suicide. This QI project lasted 6-week period and included a telehealth intervention that used verbal instructions and teach-back to improve knowledge. Participants filled-out surveys before and after intervention. Despite the small sample size, all the participants showed improvements. Based on these findings, the outpatient clinic was advised to continue reinforcing knowledge of the mobile suicide safety plan application and to incorporate a telehealth follow-up program to emphasize proper application use for these patients. Future projects and research should focus on larger sample sizes over longer periods of time as well as tracking suicide risks and outcomes.
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Date Issued: 2022
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/faudnp000059
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Implementation of Pain Assessment Tool for Patients with Dementia.
Creator: Sommer, Stephanie, Longo, Joy, Florida Atlantic University, Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing
Abstract/Description: According to the World Health Organization (2019) approximately 50 million people worldwide have dementia. Pain in patients with dementia who are unable to verbalize discomfort may lead to unnecessary suffering and a poor quality of life. Accurate pain evaluation by the nurse is of critical importance, yet pain is often inappropriately assessed and undertreated. The purpose of this quality improvement project was to implement a pain assessment tool for the assessment and management of pain in...
Show moreAccording to the World Health Organization (2019) approximately 50 million people worldwide have dementia. Pain in patients with dementia who are unable to verbalize discomfort may lead to unnecessary suffering and a poor quality of life. Accurate pain evaluation by the nurse is of critical importance, yet pain is often inappropriately assessed and undertreated. The purpose of this quality improvement project was to implement a pain assessment tool for the assessment and management of pain in patients with dementia. The project took place at an assisted living facility in Boca Raton, Florida. The Swanson middle-range Theory of Caring (SCT) served as the theoretical framework and the Plan, Do, Study, Act model supported the translation of evidence into practice.
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Date Issued: 2020
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/faudnp000015
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Implementing a Lower Carbohydrate, Mediterranean-Style Diet to Improve A1C and BMI.
Creator: Handwerger, Durrell, Love, Tamara, Grynberg, Fred, Florida Atlantic University, Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing
Abstract/Description: The aim of this project was to describe a quality program for individuals with Type II Diabetes (T2DM) that implemented a Mediterranean-style diet lower in carbohydrates to lower A1C (Glycosylated Hemoglobin) and BMI (Body mass index) in a 12-week period. These markers are clinically significant because A1C levels indicate an average of blood sugars over three months, and lower BMI scores over time indicate weight loss. Both of these variables are important markers of diabetic health.
Date Issued: 2021
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/faudnp000031
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Implementing a Male Breast Cancer Screening Protocol with a Medically Underserved Population.
Creator: Gonzalez, Haizea Lee, Bulfin, Susan, Klause, Karin, Florida Atlantic University, Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing
Abstract/Description: This Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) project describes a quality improvement (QI) project to address the problem of male breast cancer (MBC) in a medically underserved population in the southeastern United States. The purpose of this project was to implement a practice protocol to increase breast cancer screening rates to potentially improve early identification and management of men at risk for breast cancer in an outpatient safety net clinic. The Six Sigma DMAIC methodology guided the...
Show moreThis Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) project describes a quality improvement (QI) project to address the problem of male breast cancer (MBC) in a medically underserved population in the southeastern United States. The purpose of this project was to implement a practice protocol to increase breast cancer screening rates to potentially improve early identification and management of men at risk for breast cancer in an outpatient safety net clinic. The Six Sigma DMAIC methodology guided the development, implementation, and evaluation of the project. A pre and post intervention survey was utilized to measure nurse practitioners’ knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) about MBC screening and a chart audit tool was utilized to measure adherence to the protocol. The results revealed statistical significance. The nurse practitioners demonstrated improved KAP of male breast cancer screening recommendations based on responses to the pre and post questionnaires. The implementation of the male breast cancer screening protocol led to a significant increase in the nurse practitioner’s MBC screening rates. The findings reinforce continued education of nurse practitioners for male breast cancer prevention. Public education is also pertinent for early detection and prevention of male breast cancer worldwide.
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Date Issued: 2020
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/faudnp000012
Format: Document (PDF)

Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing (149)	+ -
Florida Atlantic University (148)	+ -
Hain, Debra (14)	+ -
Harris, Nancy (9)	+ -
Bulfin, Susan (8)	+ -

Gordon, Shirley (7)	+ -
Kelly, Tracian (7)	+ -
Longo, Joy (6)	+ -
Chadwell, Katherine (5)	+ -
Love, Tamara (5)	+ -
Gropper, Sareen (4)	+ -
Mammah, Kyndall (4)	+ -
Wisdom-Chambers, Karen (4)	+ -
Chiang-Hanisko, Lenny (3)	+ -
Edwards, Karethy (3)	+ -
Hernández, María de los Ángeles Ortega (3)	+ -
Hershorin, Tracian Kelly (3)	+ -
Ortega, María de los Ángeles (3)	+ -
Pritchard, Kyndall (3)	+ -
Wiese, Lisa (3)	+ -
Brennen, Marlene (2)	+ -
Chambers, Karen (2)	+ -
De la Cerda, Jodie (2)	+ -
Dittman, Patricia (2)	+ -
Duhaney, Michelle (2)	+ -
Eggenberger, Terry (2)	+ -
Gordon, Shirley C. (2)	+ -
Harvey, Kathi (2)	+ -
Hawthorne, Dawn (2)	+ -
Heinze, Katherine (2)	+ -

Document (PDF) (147)	+ -
Citation (3)	+ -

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