NURS FPX 6016 Assessment 1: Evidence-Based Practice Project Proposal

Introduction

The NURS FPX 6016 Assessment 1 focuses on developing a proposal for an evidence-based practice (EBP) project aimed at improving patient outcomes in a specific healthcare setting. This assessment highlights the importance of integrating research findings into clinical practice to address healthcare challenges effectively. The following proposal outlines a project to enhance the management of diabetes in an outpatient clinic setting.

Identifying the Healthcare Issue

Selected Issue: Diabetes Management in Outpatient Clinics

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide. Poor management of diabetes can lead to severe complications, including cardiovascular disease, neuropathy, and kidney failure. In outpatient settings, patients often face challenges in self-management due to a lack of education, inadequate resources, and inconsistent follow-up care. The goal of this project is to implement an EBP initiative to improve diabetes management among patients in an outpatient clinic.

Goals and Objectives

Overall Goal

To improve diabetes management and patient outcomes in an outpatient clinic by implementing an evidence-based education program.

Specific Objectives

1. Increase Patient Knowledge: Enhance patient understanding of diabetes self-management through structured educational sessions.
2. Improve Glycemic Control: Achieve a 20% increase in the number of patients achieving target HbA1c levels within six months of program implementation.
3. Enhance Follow-Up Care: Establish a follow-up system to ensure ongoing support and monitoring for patients enrolled in the program.

Evidence-Based Intervention

Educational Program Implementation

1. Curriculum Development: Create a comprehensive curriculum covering essential topics such as:

   • Understanding diabetes and its complications
   • Nutrition and meal planning
   • Exercise and physical activity
   • Medication management and adherence

2. Delivery Format: Use a combination of group sessions, one-on-one consultations, and online resources to accommodate different learning preferences and schedules.

3. Patient Engagement: Incorporate interactive activities such as workshops, cooking demonstrations, and goal-setting exercises to engage patients actively in their learning.

Follow-Up Support

1. Regular Check-Ins: Schedule follow-up appointments and phone calls to monitor progress and provide ongoing support for patients in the program.
2. Utilization of Technology: Implement the use of mobile health applications to track patient data, facilitate communication, and send reminders for medication and appointments.

Literature Review

A thorough literature review will be conducted to support the proposed intervention. Key studies may include:

• Research demonstrating the effectiveness of structured diabetes education programs in improving patient outcomes and HbA1c levels.
• Evidence on the impact of follow-up support and technology in enhancing diabetes management.
• Best practices in patient engagement strategies for chronic disease management.

Evaluation Plan

Metrics for Success

1. Patient Knowledge Assessment: Use pre- and post-intervention surveys to evaluate changes in patient knowledge regarding diabetes management.
2. Glycemic Control Measurement: Track HbA1c levels before and after the intervention to assess improvements in glycemic control.
3. Follow-Up Compliance: Measure the percentage of patients who attend follow-up appointments and engage with support resources.

Continuous Quality Improvement

Establish a feedback mechanism for patients and healthcare providers to share insights and suggestions for program improvement. Regularly review data to identify trends and make necessary adjustments to the program.

Conclusion

The NURS FPX 6016 Assessment 1 proposal outlines a comprehensive plan to improve diabetes management in an outpatient clinic setting through an evidence-based education program. By enhancing patient knowledge, improving glycemic control, and providing ongoing follow-up support, this project aims to empower patients in their self-management efforts and ultimately improve health outcomes. Implementing this EBP initiative will not only benefit individual patients but also contribute to the overall quality of care provided in the healthcare setting. Through continuous evaluation and adaptation, the program can sustain its effectiveness and address the evolving needs of diabetes patients.